Translated with AI
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan expressed deep concern over the detention of at least 30 women in the city of Herat by representatives of the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice for violating established dress codes, the UN press service reported.
As noted in the Mission's statement, dozens of other women received verbal warnings. Although those detained were subsequently released, the consequences of arbitrary arrests have a serious impact on both the women themselves and their families.
The Mission also expressed concern about reports of excessive use of force by de facto Afghan security forces against residents participating in the June 9 protests in Herat. The protests were linked to grievances over the arbitrary detention of women.
According to the UN, at least one death has been confirmed – a boy killed by gunfire. Several people were also injured by beatings with sticks. A possible second victim is currently being investigated.
Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan and Acting Head of Mission, said the detention of women in Afghanistan has serious social consequences and can expose them to the risk of further violence and isolation within their families and communities upon release.
She also stressed that, in accordance with international law, the de facto authorities in Afghanistan are obliged to ensure the rights of all citizens to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, personal liberty and security, and to guarantee protection from arbitrary detention.
The Mission's statement reiterated that any measures taken by law enforcement agencies must comply with international legal standards. The UN reiterated that people have the right to peacefully express their dissent without fear of violence, intimidation, or reprisals.
