UN staff arrested in Afghanistan over report on women

Taliban intelligence has detained two UNAMA human rights staff members in Herat after they recently reported on the detention of women in the province, Afghanistan International reports.

Protests have erupted in the region against new regulations for women, including a ban on makeup.

The Taliban took the two UNAMA staff members away on Sunday, 9 August.

They managed to have an interview with several girls who had been detained.

UNAMA said it was not yet aware of the charges against the two men and had not been granted access to meet them.

The UN office called on the Taliban to respect the privileges and immunities of United Nations personnel.

Protests in Herat were dispersed with gunfire. According to sources, more than 20 people were injured and two were killed. The UN mission has requested comment. The organization recorded the arrest of at least 30 women.

The Taliban had previously tightened regulations for women. Moreover, in June 2026, the UN criticized Afghanistan for human rights violations.