Honour-based violence and oppression exist in many communities and can take different forms. No one is allowed to treat you badly. You have the right to feel well and to seek help if you need it.

What does honour-based violence and oppression mean?

Honour-based violence and oppression are about there being demands that everyone in the family must follow certain rules so as not to damage the family's reputation and standing, its honour. Anyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, can be subjected to honour-based oppression and violence. If you break the rules and norms you are expected to follow, you may come to harm.

What can honour-based violence and oppression look like?

Do you live in a situation where you are not allowed to decide for yourself how to dress and who you can meet, whom you are to marry, whether you want to divorce, or which profession you should choose? Sometimes a rumour about what you may have said or done can be enough for you to come to harm. Those who exercise control are usually several family members – both women and men. In more serious cases, you may be subjected to threats of violence or violence.

Some are especially vulnerable

If you are an LGBTQ person living with honour norms, you may be especially exposed, since anything other than heterosexuality is often unthinkable. You may also be especially exposed if you have a disability, since your dependence on the person or people who commit the violence may be great and the violence takes other forms and can be difficult to detect.

Where can I turn?

If you are affected, it is important that you know you are not alone. We are here to give you advice and support and to make sure you are treated with respect and empathy. You have the right to that. Contact the Reception Unit for guidance. If you are up to 23 years old, you can also talk to our youth clinic.

In case of immediate danger, always call 112.