Honour based abuse

The concept of ‘honour’ killing may be unfamiliar to some. However, the ITV factual drama “Honour”, tells the story of 20 year old Banaz Mahmod, who was murdered in 2006 on the orders of her father and uncle. This occurred after Banaz left an abusive marriage to be with another man against her family’s wishes. Banaz reported the threat to her life on five separate occasions, but no action was taken.

The importance of shedding light and raising awareness on the topic of honour based abuse is paramount. So-called "honour" killings are carried out on those deemed to have gone against cultural beliefs and, in doing so, "dishonoured" their families.

The Honour Based Violence Awareness Network estimates that there are 12 victims each year in the UK who are accused of shaming their family. Yet British charity Karma Nirvana state they are contacted 700-800 times a month and that numbers surge just before the school holidays, when threatened girls seek help.

So called ‘honour’ killings are denounced by all major religions, yet there are around 5,000 each year across the world, largely across South Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. Although the number of crimes committed in the UK are not as high as other countries, there is evidence to suggest that it is a bigger problem than we realise.

Charity, Karma Nirvana call for more training and awareness in communities across the UK, to prevent more young women being posthumously honoured as a result of the most brutal of deaths.

If you believe you have been a victim of honour based abuse, our experienced abuse team headed by Natalie Marrison are here to help you. For a confidential discussion, please contact natalie.marrison@ramsdens.co.uk or telephone 0113 887 1838.