What is so-called honour based violence?

There is no universally agreed upon definition of ‘honour’-based violence. It is generally used to refer to crimes that have been committed by perpetrators who perceive they are protecting or defending the ‘honour’ of a family or community. These crimes often include forms of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Such ‘honour’ may be used to justify a range of abusive behaviours, typically against women and girls, however, these are human rights violations and must not be excused for any reason.

For support

Anyone affected by these forms of violence and abuse should be able to access help and support when they need it and every case should be taken seriously.

The Live Fear Free Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for women, children and men experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence or other forms of violence against women.