UN Experts Raise Alarm Over Violence Against Protesters in Herat

According to the experts, law enforcement must act within strict international standards, using force only when it is legal, necessary, and proportionate to the threat.

UN experts have expressed serious concern over reports of excessive force used against demonstrators in Herat, Afghanistan, following the detention of dozens of women for alleged dress code violations. The protests on 6 and 7 June 2026 highlighted growing tensions as authorities sought to enforce strict clothing rules for women.

According to the experts, law enforcement must act within strict international standards, using force only when it is legal, necessary, and proportionate to the threat. The principles of precaution, non-discrimination, and accountability must guide every action. Any lethal force must be justified, particularly in situations where protesters may have thrown stones, which does not alone justify killing or severe harm.

Arbitrary Detention of Women Sparks Alarm

The UN experts described allegations of detaining women for dress code violations as deeply troubling, noting such actions may constitute unlawful and arbitrary detention. Penalising women for their choice of clothing violates their rights to freedom of expression and protection from gender discrimination. Authorities are urged to release detainees immediately and to ensure no further ill-treatment occurs. The experts also called for guarantees that injured protesters can access medical care without interference.

Calls for Transparent Investigations

The UN experts emphasised the need for thorough and independent investigations into the use of force during the protests. Investigations must be able to establish whether lethal measures were necessary and proportional to the threat, collecting forensic evidence from the outset and holding accountable those responsible along the chain of command. Clear, impartial investigations are essential to restore public confidence and prevent further escalation of violence.

Upholding Fundamental Rights Is Essential

The experts reiterated that the Taliban, as the de facto authority, must uphold Afghanistan's obligations under international human rights treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Convention against Torture, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. Rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, movement, and protection from arbitrary detention are critical for maintaining trust and stability. De-escalation is urgent to prevent additional harm, and authorities must refrain from any actions or rhetoric that could aggravate tensions.

The UN experts concluded by calling on Afghanistan's de facto authorities to immediately release all detainees, ensure non-discriminatory enforcement of laws, and act transparently in all law enforcement practices. Protecting human rights and following international standards remains essential to safeguarding the population and preventing further human suffering.