The Dutch approach to honour-based violence: Navigating the complexities

The Dutch approach to honour-based violence (HBV) has evolved from isolated responses to a comprehensive strategy combining prevention, intervention, and prosecution. Triggered by high-profile cases, the approach introduced specialized police methods, pilot projects, and the establishment of the National Expertise Centre for Honour-Based Violence (LEC EGG). HBV is defined as violence committed from a collective mentality to restore family honour, often involving group pressure and cultural norms. Dutch policy focuses primarily on sexuality and family-related contexts, while acknowledging diversity and avoiding cultural essentialism. Prevalence data are limited to police figures, with most cases involving threats and abuse rather than lethal violence. Although HBV is often framed as a migrant issue, research stresses its global nature and warns against stereotyping. Legal responses have shifted from cultural relativism to stricter punishment, rejecting cultural defence as a mitigating factor. Current debates concern whether HBV requires specific criminal provisions or can be addressed under general law. The Dutch model illustrates the tension between universal human rights and culturally sensitive interventions, highlighting the need for nuanced strategies to prevent and prosecute HBV effectively.