Abstract

This article tackles the problem of honour-based violence and the institutional response to it. It claims for a differentiation between honour-based violence and other forms of domestic and family violence, based on the specificities of the former. It stresses the shortcomings of current legislative approaches to honour crimes, including both difficulties encountered by victims in accessing justice and secondary victimisation experienced within the criminal justice system. By relying on case studies analysed and existing good practices, the article provides then guidelines in order to ameliorate the support for victims of honour crimes. The suggested strategy consists of four key elements, which are likely to sharpen the response and increase victims’ access to justice: a coordinated multi-agency approach; a specialised risk assessment carried out by trained professionals; a closer consideration of victims’ needs regarding the relationship with family members (with the possibility of setting up mediation or dialogue programs); and a stronger cooperation between state authorities and communities.