Crimes of Honor in the MENA Region: Root Causes, Impacts, and Pathways to Eradication

Crimes of honor, prevalent across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, represent a severe violation of human rights, rooted in patriarchal traditions, cultural norms, and legal shortcomings. These acts of violence, primarily targeting women, are often justified as a means of preserving family honor. This paper explores the prevalence of honor crimes in the MENA region, incorporating real statistics from countries such as Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt, and analyzes the root causes, including societal structures, misinterpretations of religious texts, and inadequate legal frameworks. It examines the far-reaching impacts on victims and society, highlighting the reinforcement of gender inequality and erosion of trust in justice systems. Despite ongoing efforts, including legal reforms and grassroots initiatives, significant challenges remain. The study underscores the need for comprehensive approaches, combining education, legal accountability, and cultural change, to eradicate this deeply entrenched issue.