HONOUR KILLINGS IN PAKISTAN: SOCIO-CULTURAL DYNAMICS, LEGAL REFORMS AND CASE STUDIES

Abstract

Honour killings in Pakistan, driven by deep-rooted socio-cultural factors and patriarchal traditions, represent a significant human rights issue. This article explores the socio-cultural dynamics that perpetuate honour killings, the evolution of legal reforms, tracing the historical context from colonial laws to contemporary legislation, aimed at addressing this violence, and the impact of notable case studies such as Mukhtar Mai and Saba Qaisar. Despite legislative efforts, honour killings persist due to entrenched cultural norms and weak enforcement mechanisms. By examining these aspects, this article underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that combine legal reforms with societal change to ensure justice and protection for victims.