Islamabad, Pakistan – Honour killings remain a devastating issue in Pakistan, with at least 346 people falling victim to this brutal practice in 2024, according to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP). The majority of those killed were women, though the report also revealed that 185 men were tragically murdered in the name of so-called honour.
The data indicates that most incidents took place in Sindh and Punjab, but it is important to note that these figures only reflect reported cases. Many honour killings go unreported, as families often attempt to conceal these crimes.
The number of such killings remains alarmingly high, with 490 cases reported in 2023 and 590 in 2022. Despite efforts to raise awareness and tighten laws, honour killings continue to be a deeply ingrained social menace in the country.
Victims of honour killings are often accused of engaging in immoral acts, which allegedly provoke their guardians or family members to take violent measures. These tragic events result in the senseless loss of life, highlighting the persistent nature of this crime.
Globally, honour killings claim the lives of over 5,000 women annually, according to the UNFPA. The practice is rooted in deeply ingrained societal norms, particularly outdated traditions that tie a family’s honour to the actions of its women. Additionally, Pakistan’s patriarchal society, where male family members often exert control over women’s lives, further perpetuates this horrific practice.
Experts argue that addressing these underlying issues is essential to eradicating honour killings and bringing an end to this tragic phenomenon in Pakistan.
