The United Nations has called for an investigation into the mistreatment of women in Taliban-controlled prisons in Afghanistan. This comes after reports of widespread abuse, including sexual violence, have surfaced.
A recent video allegedly showing the gang rape of a woman in Taliban custody has been circulated as a threat to silence critics. The Guardian reports that such footage is being used to intimidate women who speak out against the Taliban government.
According to a U.S. State Department report, 16 out of 90 female prisoners in three Afghan provinces became pregnant due to rape incidents in Taliban custody. Women in these prisons reportedly face torture, electric shocks, death threats, sexual harassment, and forced marriages.
The UN Special Representative for Afghanistan stated that women in detention face sexual violence. Afghan women claim that such abuse is common in Taliban prisons.
Since taking power, the Taliban has restricted women's participation in public life, implemented strict dress codes, and announced punishments such as public flogging and stoning.
Despite the risks, Afghan women continue to speak out against Taliban oppression.
