Cultural Narratives and the Roots of Honor Killings in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Honor stands at the core of many societies where identity, reputation, and social conformity are heavily monitored. Violation of these norms can have serious repercussions, the most severe being Honor killings. In Pakistan, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it is still a major gender-based violation that goes generally unpunished due to socio-cultural factors. The research intends to explore in what ways do sociocultural norms and power structures influence the validation or rejection of honor killings in KPK? A qualitative research methodology was used to understand this phenomenon in District Hungu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, and participants were selected through a purposive sampling technique. The purpose of this study is to explore the cause of honor killings in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), with an emphasis on determining through data gathered from community members. Specifically, it seeks to understand ‘How do they perceive honor killings?’ and the justification and rejection of these incidents. Thematic analysis was used for interpretations, and findings revealed that plenty of instances of honour killings were due to false accusations, illicit affairs, secret marriage, public appearances, and personal relationships. Which is further fuelled by power control, jealousy, and provocation. Although opinions on honor killings vary, most people defend them, preserving family honor and shielding the community from immorality. Younger and more educated people criticize honor killings as a way to maintain patriarchy and doubt their legitimacy. The study suggests that the eradication of honor killings by addressing the underlying motives necessitates extensive legal reforms, public awareness initiatives, and the empowerment of women via education and economic possibilities.