Honour-Based Abuse (HBA)
Abuse is never honourable. No tradition, culture, or family expectation justifies violence or control.
Honour-Based Abuse (HBA) is a form of violence and coercive control committed to protect or defend the supposed ‘honour’ of a family or community. It most often targets women and girls but can affect anyone, including men and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Abuse carried out in the name of ‘honour’ is abuse. It is illegal. And you have the right to be safe.
What Is Honour-Based Abuse?
Honour-based abuse is when a person is harmed because their behaviour is seen to bring shame, disrespect, or ‘dishonour’ on their family or community. It often involves multiple perpetrators, including parents, siblings, extended family members, or community leaders.
For some communities, maintaining family ‘honour’ is seen as essential to social standing. When someone acts in a way that is perceived to break cultural, religious, or gender-based expectations, they may be subjected to abuse to restore or protect the family’s reputation.
Actions That May Be Considered 'Dishonourable'
Honour-based abuse may be triggered by actions such as:
- Having a relationship not approved by the family (e.g. interfaith or LGBTQ+ relationships)
- Wanting to choose your own partner or refusing a forced marriage
- Getting separated or divorced
- Being sexually active or pregnant before marriage
- Dressing differently or challenging traditional gender roles
- Speaking to people from different communities or cultures
- Using alcohol or drugs
- Rejecting or questioning family religion or traditions
None of these actions justify abuse.
Examples of Honour-Based Abuse
HBA is not limited to one form of harm—it can include:
- Physical violence or threats
- Coercive control and emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse or rape
- Forced marriage or forced abortion
- Isolation from friends, family, or education
- Preventing access to the phone, internet, or passport
- Surveillance and control over movements or communication
- Pressure to move abroad or being taken abroad against your will
- Honour killings (in extreme cases)
“They said I was shaming the family by living independently. I was constantly monitored and threatened. I finally reached out—and that saved my life.”
— Nadia, survivor
Is Honour-Based Abuse a Crime?
Yes. Honour-based abuse is not a specific criminal offence, but the acts involved—such as assault, threats, coercive control, sexual violence, forced marriage, and female genital mutilation (FGM)—are all crimes under UK law.
It’s important to know:
- Abuse committed under the guise of cultural or religious values is still abuse
- Crimes of ‘honour’ are human rights violations
- Forced marriage and FGM are both criminal offences
- Cultural tradition does not excuse abuse—the law protects you
The Impact of Honour-Based Abuse
HBA can have a severe and lasting impact on victims, including:
- Trauma, anxiety, or depression
- Isolation and loss of independence
- Fear of being harmed or disowned
- Risk of physical injury or death
- Barriers to education, employment, and healthcare
If you feel afraid, controlled, or unable to make your own choices, you may be experiencing honour-based abuse. You are not alone—and it is not your fault.
If You’re in Immediate Danger
- Call 999
- Text 999 if you’re unable to speak (you must register your phone first)
- Prepare a safe bag with ID, money, emergency contacts
- Visit a Safe Space in local pharmacies or hospitals
- Contact the Forced Marriage Unit: fmu@fcdo.gov.uk | 020 7008 0151
How We Can Help
At STN Women’s Lives Matter, we provide confidential, culturally sensitive support to individuals experiencing honour-based abuse. Our team can help with:
- Safe housing and refuge referrals
- Legal advice and protection orders
- Trauma counselling and emotional support
- Immigration and visa guidance
- Culturally appropriate advocacy and peer support
- Interpretation and multilingual services if needed
We never contact your family or community without your permission. Your safety and confidentiality come first.
Honour should never come at the cost of your safety or your life. We’re here to help you reclaim your freedom—on your terms.