You have the right to freedom from honour related violence and oppression
In some families and extended families, it is important that the family maintain a “good” reputation. There may be rules about what clothes you can wear, who you can hang out with, that you cannot be together with and marry whomever you want, study what you want, or pursue the profession you want.
Both girls and boys are affected
These rules tend to be the strictest for girls, but there are also rules that apply to boys. If the rules cause you to be poorly treated or punished, this is known as “honour-related violence and oppression”. The poor treatment or punishment may include beatings, threats, or being called mean names. Exposing a child to honour-related violence and oppression is a violation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and Swedish law.
Sometimes children are forced to control their siblings because the family is worried that rumours about them will spread. But all people have the right to live their own life, the way they want to live it. This applies regardless of your religion or cultural background, what country you come from, or who your family is. All children have the right to live their own lives, and should not have to control anyone else.
Where to turn
If you or someone you know is being subjected to honour-related violence or oppression, you can turn to a teacher at your school, the social services in your municipality, or the Swedish Migration Agency for help. There are also various organisations that can provide support and information about honour related violence and oppression.
GAPF – National Organisation against Honour Related Violence (in Swedish)
External link, opens in new window.: Here you can get support if you or someone you know are being subjected to honour related violence or oppression. You can call 08-711 60 32, send an e-mail, or use the chat function.
Love is Free (in Swedish) External link, opens in new window.: Here you can get support via chat and e-mail if you have questions about honour related violence or oppression, your rights, love, forced marriage or genital mutilation.
Tris – Girls’ Rights in Society (in Swedish) External link, opens in new window.: Here you can get support if you feel limited by your family or relatives or are subjected to threats or violence when you try to make your own choices. Call 010-255 91 91.
