‘Honour’-based abuse: Statutory definition a ‘welcome’ and ‘crucial’ step
The Victims' Commissioner welcomes plans to introduce a statutory definition of so-called honour-based abuse, alongside a number of additional measures set to improve the response to what Baroness Newlove describes as a 'devastating crime'.
The Government has announced a package of new measures to tackle honour-based abuse (HBA), including the introduction of a first-ever statutory definition.
Other measures announced include new statutory guidance to support professionals in identifying and responding, a community awareness campaign, a pilot study looking at the prevalence of abuse, as well as additional training for frontline professionals.
The announcement follows years of campaigning, including by specialist support organisation Karma Nirvana as well as victims and bereaved families, such as the mother of 31-year-old Fawziyah Javed, who was murdered by her husband in 2021 after she tried to leave her marriage.
Commenting on the announcement and new measures, the Victims’ Commissioner, said:
“So-called honour-based abuse is a devastating crime, often leaving victims terrorised, isolated, and controlled by the very family and community that should be protecting them. The introduction of a statutory definition is a welcome and crucial next step in strengthening our collective response to this serious and complex abuse.
“The accompanying package of measures will ensure this crime is tackled in a joined-up way, helping victims access the support they need to flee and stay safe.
“This victory has been hard won by campaigners, families and survivors alike. I applaud their tireless dedication and commend the government for taking this critical step.”
- Find out more about the new measures – and read Baroness Newlove’s statement – in The Mirror.
- Go to specialist support charity Karma Nirvana to find out more about the announcement, including what the measures mean for them.