Honour Based Violence

Honour based violence, including ‘honour killings’, is a type of abuse that is carried out in communities that have strong perceptions of ‘honour’ and ‘shame’.

Individuals may be seen to bring shame onto the family if they behave, or it is rumoured that they have behaved, in a way which the family or community disapproves of, this can result in honour based violence.  This may include having a ‘non-arranged’ relationship, having a relationship with someone of a different faith, dressing inappropriately, refusing an arranged marriage, leaving a marriage or being gay.

Acting on this in a violent manner is honour based violence.

The concept of honour and shame leads families to perpetrate honour based violence such as keeping victims locked in the house, sending them abroad, forced marriage, assaults and ultimately murdering them – which is called honour killing. Speaking out against honour based violence is extremely difficult as the perpetrators are more often than not the victim’s extended family and loved ones, who they do not wish to feel the force of the law.

There isn't one specific crime of honour-based abuse. It can involve a range of crimes and behaviours, such as: 

• forced marriage

• domestic abuse (physical, sexual, psychological, emotional or financial)

• sexual harassment and sexual violence (rape and sexual assault or the threat of)

• threats to kill, physical and emotional violence and murder

• pressure to go or move abroad

• being kept at home with no freedom

• not allowed to use the telephone, internet, or have access to important documents like your passport or birth certificate

• isolation from friends and members of your own family

If you're concerned about someone being abused, here are some warning signs to look out for:

• acting withdrawn or upset

• bruising or other unexplained physical injury

• depression, self-harming or attempted suicide

• unexplained absence or poor performance at school or work

• their movements at home are strictly controlled

• family rows, domestic violence

• running away from home

• a family history of relatives going missing

We know it can be difficult to talk about what is happening, but telling someone can really help.

If someone in your family is controlling you and you are scared they will harm you or abuse you, if you are frightened that you will be forced into a marriage, or if this has already happened please contact us. We can help you get the support that you need.