UN human rights experts have warned that an elderly British couple detained in Afghanistan may die in degrading conditions, as they demand their immediate transfer to hospital for medical treatment. Peter and Barbie Reynolds, aged 80 and 75, have been held by the Taliban without charges since February, and their health has rapidly deteriorated.
In a statement released on Monday, the UN experts said they saw no reason why the couple should be detained at all and requested an immediate review of the grounds for their detention. The group, including UN special rapporteur on torture Alice Jill Edwards, described the conditions as inhumane, particularly given the couple's fragile health.
The couple were initially held in a maximum-security facility and underground cells without sunlight before being moved to above-ground cells last week. Their physical and mental health is deteriorating rapidly, and without adequate medical care, they risk irreparable harm or even death. Peter Reynolds recently collapsed, has had two eye infections, and suffers from intermittent tremors. He needs heart medication after a transient ischemic attack in 2023, and his children report a recurrence of skin cancer on his face requiring urgent treatment. Barbie Reynolds has anaemia, remains weak and frail due to poor nutrition, and has reported numbness in her feet.
The couple have lived in Afghanistan for 18 years, where they founded a research and training business. The UN group said they have been deprived of liberty without proper legal proceedings, access to legal assistance, or adequate medical care, and have only limited telephone contact with family. The psychological toll of not knowing why they are being held or when they will be released amounts to cruel treatment.
The couple recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary and have four children living in the UK and the US. On Sunday, their children issued a plea for their parents' release before it is too late.
