Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
At least 30 women in Herat city were arrested for allegedly violating Taliban-imposed dress requirements, reportedly including wearing a burka or chador with a face mask and a ban on perfume, according to UN Women and independent human rights experts.
Many women have since been released, but the arrests have heightened fear among women and girls in Afghanistan. Detention carries significant stigma, risking further violence and isolation after release, stated Georgette Gagnon, the UN Deputy Special Representative leading the mission in Afghanistan.
Independent experts reported that during protests against the restrictive measures and arrests on June 9, Taliban security forces allegedly opened fire on demonstrators, including men, women, and children, beating some and resulting in at least two deaths—one a boy—and over 20 injuries.
While some protesters reportedly threw stones, experts stated this did not justify the use of lethal force. They emphasized that, as the de facto authority, the Taliban must adhere to Afghanistan's international human rights treaty obligations.
The rights experts stressed that equality, peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and protection from arbitrary detention are fundamental rights necessary to rebuild public trust and prevent further deterioration in Afghanistan. They urged immediate de-escalation and the release of detainees, warning against further violence or harm.