British Couple in Their 70s Arrested by Taliban in Afghanistan for Teaching Mothers – Guy D. McCardle
In a rather distressing turn of events, a British couple in their seventies, Peter and Barbie Reynolds, have been detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The couple, who have dedicated nearly two decades to educational initiatives in the eternally war-torn country, were arrested on February 1, 2025, upon returning to their home in Bamiyan province. Their detention has raised significant concerns among their family and the international community.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Afghanistan
Peter and Barbie Reynolds’ connection to Afghanistan spans over five decades. After meeting at Bath University, the couple married in Kabul in 1970, reflecting their deep affection for the country. Over the past 18 years, they have been instrumental in implementing training projects across Afghan schools, focusing on participatory learning and teacher training. Their unwavering commitment saw them remain in Afghanistan even after the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021, a period during which many foreigners chose to leave.
Barbie’s dedication did not go unnoticed; she became the first woman to receive a certificate of appreciation from the Taliban for her contributions to education. This recognition underscores the positive impact the couple had on local communities and the educational sector.
The couple founded “Rebuild” in 2009 as a business that provides “high quality contextualized training services to the Afghan people.
Circumstances Surrounding the Arrest
The arrest occurred when the Reynolds, accompanied by their Chinese-American friend, Faye Hall, returned to Bamiyan from Kabul. Ms. Hall had chartered a private plane for their journey. Upon their return, Taliban authorities detained all three individuals. Initially, the Reynolds managed to communicate with their four children via text messages, indicating they were held by the interior ministry and assuring their well-being. However, after three days, all communication ceased, leaving the family in a state of anguish.
Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, expressed profound concern, stating, “My mother is 75 and my father almost 80, and [he] needs his heart medication after a mini-stroke. They were just trying to help the country they loved. The idea they are being held because they were teaching mothers with children is outrageous.”
Adherence to Local Regulations
Despite the challenging environment following the Taliban’s return to power, the Reynolds were meticulous in adhering to local regulations. They continued their educational endeavors with the necessary permissions, focusing on projects that trained mothers and children—a program reportedly approved by local authorities. The couple was acutely aware of the evolving restrictions, especially those concerning women’s roles, and ensured their initiatives complied with the prevailing rules.
In a rather distressing turn of events, a British couple in their seventies, Peter and Barbie Reynolds, have been detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The couple, who have dedicated nearly two decades to educational initiatives in the eternally war-torn country, were arrested on February 1, 2025, upon returning to their home in Bamiyan province. Their detention has raised significant concerns among their family and the international community.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Afghanistan
Peter and Barbie Reynolds’ connection to Afghanistan spans over five decades. After meeting at Bath University, the couple married in Kabul in 1970, reflecting their deep affection for the country. Over the past 18 years, they have been instrumental in implementing training projects across Afghan schools, focusing on participatory learning and teacher training. Their unwavering commitment saw them remain in Afghanistan even after the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021, a period during which many foreigners chose to leave.
Barbie’s dedication did not go unnoticed; she became the first woman to receive a certificate of appreciation from the Taliban for her contributions to education. This recognition underscores the positive impact the couple had on local communities and the educational sector.
The couple founded “Rebuild” in 2009 as a business that provides “high quality contextualized training services to the Afghan people.
Circumstances Surrounding the Arrest
The arrest occurred when the Reynolds, accompanied by their Chinese-American friend, Faye Hall, returned to Bamiyan from Kabul. Ms. Hall had chartered a private plane for their journey. Upon their return, Taliban authorities detained all three individuals. Initially, the Reynolds managed to communicate with their four children via text messages, indicating they were held by the interior ministry and assuring their well-being. However, after three days, all communication ceased, leaving the family in a state of anguish.
Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, expressed profound concern, stating, “My mother is 75 and my father almost 80, and [he] needs his heart medication after a mini-stroke. They were just trying to help the country they loved. The idea they are being held because they were teaching mothers with children is outrageous.”
Adherence to Local Regulations
Despite the challenging environment following the Taliban’s return to power, the Reynolds were meticulous in adhering to local regulations. They continued their educational endeavors with the necessary permissions, focusing on projects that trained mothers and children—a program reportedly approved by local authorities. The couple was acutely aware of the evolving restrictions, especially those concerning women’s roles, and ensured their initiatives complied with the prevailing rules.
Allegations and Family’s Plea
Reports suggest that during interrogations, employees and associates of the Reynolds were questioned about potential religious proselytizing activities. However, all interviewed parties refuted such claims, emphasizing that the couple’s mission was purely educational. Sarah Entwistle reiterated, “They are very definitely not spies. They are not associated with any government agencies. They are only doing training for mothers and children”.
In an open letter to the Taliban … the Reynolds’ children pleaded for their parents’ release, highlighting their dual citizenship and longstanding commitment to Afghanistan. They wrote, “We do not understand the reasons behind their detention. They have communicated their trust in you, and as Afghan citizens, they expect with to be treated with respect.”
Diplomatic Challenges
The situation is further complicated by the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and the Taliban-led government. The UK does not officially recognize the Taliban regime and lacks an embassy in Kabul, limiting direct diplomatic channels to address such detentions. The Foreign Office has been notified and is reportedly making efforts, but the lack of official representation poses significant hurdles.
Barbie Reynolds, in pink, heads a training session.
Broader Context
Since assuming control in August 2021, the Taliban has imposed numerous restrictions, particularly targeting women’s rights and roles in society. These include bans on women working in various sectors, accessing secondary and higher education, and participating in public life. The arrest of the Reynolds, who have been advocates for education and women’s involvement, raises questions about the current administration’s stance on international aid workers and educators.
Wrapping Up
The detention of Peter and Barbie Reynolds reminds us of the precarious situation faced by foreign nationals and aid workers in Afghanistan. Their unwavering dedication to the country’s educational development, even amidst political upheaval, proves their profound commitment. The international community watches closely, hoping for a swift and just resolution that will allow the Reynolds to continue their invaluable work in a nation they have long called their second home.
