On this day we honour those lost to so–called honour based abuse and hope that as a society we will stand together to eventually eradicate this form of gender based abuse. in order to honour victims of so-called honour based abuse, we think it is essential for us to have a wider understanding of the concept of so–called honour based abuse. This is so we can assist those who do not recognise that they are a victims and so we can encourage them to come forward to seek the protection they are entitled to.
It is important to remember that the victims can be male and female, but women are disproportionately effected by this type of abuse, therefore this article will focus on the female victim.
What Is so–Called Honour Based Abuse?
Honour-based abuse is a crime or an incident committed to protect or defend the ‘honour’ of a family or community.
The concept of honour is usually used as a tool to control a woman/girl’s sexuality, as essentially ‘honour’ is not about the individual but it is about preserving the “reputation or social standing of a family [or community] based on the behaviour and morality of its female members.” (Brandon and Hafez, 2010) – Report on Exploratory Study into Honour Violence Measurement Methods, Cynthia Helba, Ph.D., Matthew Bernstein, Mariel Leonard, Erin Bauer, May 2015, at 2
There is an expectation for women and girls within certain communities to follow an honour code.
“The honour code which it refers to is set at the discretion of male relatives and women who do not abide by the ‘rules’ are then punished for bringing shame on the family. Infringements may include a woman having a boyfriend; rejecting a forced marriage; pregnancy outside of marriage; interfaith relationships; seeking divorce; inappropriate dress or make-up and even kissing in a public place.” – Source
What Are the Consequences of Breaching the so–Called Honour Code?
For some families and communities, the concept of ‘honour’ is prized above the safety and wellbeing of individuals, and to compromise a family’s ‘honour’ is to bring dishonour and shame. This is used to justify many types of abuse this includes disownment, physical harm, or even death ie “honour killings”. These punishments are often carried out as a belief that it restores the family’s or community’s honour. In most honour-based abuse cases there are multiple perpetrators from the immediate family, sometimes the extended family and occasionally the community at large.
How to Recognise Honour Based Abuse in Family Law Cases
So called ‘honour’-based abuse can appear in the context of a variety of offences in family cases. These offences include domestic abuse, forced marriage, child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM). There may also be multiple victims, such as siblings who are used to control the victims and are also at risk of so called ‘honour’-based abuse or a harmful cultural practice such as child/forced marriage and/or FGM.
The family courts can provide legal protection to victims, these protections include non molestation orders and occupation orders which are used to prevent violence or threats of violence and can be served on many people. Forced marriage protection orders and FGM protection orders which can also be provided as protection to victims of honour based abuse.
In this field of work, prevention and protection are usually the focus, as we want to ensure that we protect as many potential victims as possible to prevent them being subjected to irreversible harm.
O que é a violência baseada na honra?
Honour-based violence is a serious form of abuse that can leave victims feeling isolated, frightened and at immediate risk. At Goodman Ray Solicitors, our experienced family law team provides compassionate legal advice and swift protection to help you stay safe and secure your future. Click here to find out more about honour based violence and the support we provide.
Get in Touch with our Domestic Abuse Solicitors in London and Brighton
If you are experiencing honour-based violence, or you are worried that someone you know may be at risk, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Our experienced domestic abuse solicitors understand the unique challenges these cases present and will provide sensitive, confidential advice tailored to your circumstances.
We can help you obtain urgent legal protection, including Non-Molestation Orders, Occupation Orders, Forced Marriage Protection Orders and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Protection Orders where appropriate. We can also advise you on child arrangements, divorce, financial matters and any related family law issues arising from honour-based abuse.
Your safety is our priority. We will explain your legal options clearly, act quickly where immediate protection is needed and support you throughout every stage of your case.
To speak with one of our domestic abuse solicitors in London or Brighton, complete our online enquiry form or call 020 7608 1227 for confidential advice.
Honour Based Violence FAQs
Honour-based violence is a form of abuse committed to protect or defend the perceived honour of a family or community. It can include physical violence, emotional abuse, coercive control, threats, forced marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), financial abuse and, in the most serious cases, so-called honour killings. Honour-based violence is a criminal offence and should never be viewed as a cultural or religious practice.
If you are at risk of honour-based violence, the family courts can provide a range of protective orders depending on your circumstances. These may include Non-Molestation Orders, Occupation Orders, Forced Marriage Protection Orders and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Protection Orders. An experienced domestic abuse solicitor can advise you on the most appropriate legal action and help you obtain urgent protection where necessary.
Goodman Ray’s domestic abuse solicitors provide confidential, compassionate legal advice to people affected by honour-based violence. We can help you secure protective court orders, advise on divorce, child arrangements and other family law matters, and work quickly to safeguard you and your children. Our team supports clients throughout London, Brighton and beyond, always putting your safety and wellbeing first.
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