UNAMA Quarterly Report Documents Killings, Arrests and Public Punishments in Afghanistan

A United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) quarterly report covering October to December 2025 highlights ongoing human rights concerns, including killings of former security personnel, arbitrary detentions, torture, media restrictions and public punishments.

The report states that 14 former Afghan security personnel were killed during the period. It also documents 28 arbitrary detentions and seven cases of torture or mistreatment. Several victims were former officials who had been forcibly returned from neighboring countries and subsequently faced extrajudicial killings or unlawful detention.

Media restrictions expanded, with bans on broadcasting images of living beings imposed or tightened in several provinces, affecting state and private television operations. UNAMA recorded growing arrests and threats against social media users. Internet disruptions and online restrictions negatively impacted businesses, including those led by women.

Public punishments persisted, with 287 people -- including women and minors -- flogged in public. Two individuals convicted of murder were executed before crowds.

UNAMA has tracked civilian harm and rights violations in Afghanistan for over a decade. The report urges respect for human rights and accountability, warning that continued abuses risk deepening instability and further isolating Afghanistan internationally.

Human rights organizations note that economic hardship, displacement and shrinking civic space exacerbate conditions, leaving communities exposed to insecurity and violations.