Honour Related Violence and Honour Killings (Crimes in the name of honour): Exploring Rhetoric & Reality

This lecture examines the rhetoric and reality of honour-related violence (HBV) and honour killings, focusing on their social, cultural, and political dimensions. While often sensationalised and misrepresented as specific to certain cultures or religions, HBV is a global issue affecting diverse communities, including men, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals. The research challenges stereotypical narratives, highlighting the role of patriarchal systems, social norms, and "norm circles" in perpetuating these practices. Using a critical realist social constructionist approach, the study explores notions of honour in Pakistan and among Pakistani diaspora communities in the UK, revealing how honour functions as a socially constructed asset tied to control and violence. Findings emphasise the need for redefining honour, reforming legal frameworks, and dismantling patriarchal structures through active social engagement. The lecture calls for a nuanced understanding of HBV, moving beyond cultural relativism to address its root causes and broader societal implications.