EuropaWorld 17/11/2000 UN Committee Adopts Dutch Resolution Against 'Honour Killings'

Many women are killed or mutilated by relatives every year for acts such as infidelity, which are deemed to have brought dishonour on a family. If brought to justice, the perpetrators of these crimes invoke in their defence what they see as their duty to protect the honour of the family. Even where they are brought to justice those who commit these violent acts often receive reduced sentences, sometimes they are let off with only a caution.

The Netherlands has now taken the first step to help these women. The Third Committee of the UN General Assembly adopted a draft resolution submitted by the Netherlands on measures to root out 'honour killings'. This resolution, the first on the subject ever to be discussed in a UN body, is designed to lead to international action.

The resolution calls on all countries actively to oppose crimes of this kind, if necessary by changing the criminal law and taking preventive measures. It was passed by 120 votes in favour, with 25 abstentions.

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