The United Nations has called on Afghanistan's Taliban government to cease arrests of women in connection with dress code violations, according to recent statements from UN officials.

The appeal comes amid ongoing concerns about restrictions imposed on women and girls since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021. The group has implemented increasingly strict interpretations of Islamic dress codes and behavioral guidelines for women.

Since regaining control of Afghanistan, the Taliban has issued numerous decrees limiting women's participation in public life, including restrictions on education, employment, and movement. Women have been required to cover themselves completely when in public and must be accompanied by male guardians for longer journeys.

The UN and international human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized these policies as violations of fundamental human rights. The restrictions have contributed to Afghanistan's isolation from much of the international community and complicated efforts to provide humanitarian aid to the country's struggling population.

The Taliban leadership has defended its policies as consistent with their interpretation of Islamic law and Afghan cultural traditions, rejecting international criticism of their governance approach.