Homework on Honor Killings

Student No.: 2022312756 Name:김우주

1) Explain the concept and causes of honor killings.

Honor killings are a form of violence where individuals, typically women, are murdered by their
family members in order to restore or protect the family's perceived honor. This practice is often rooted in deeply
ingrained cultural beliefs and traditions. The causes of honor killings can vary, but they are commonly associated
with factors such as strict social norms, patriarchal values, gender inequality, and the desire to maintain the
family's reputation within the community.

2) How and why the phenomenon of honor killings in the Middle East has been retained? What factors have
contributed to that?
The phenomenon of honor killings in the Middle East has persisted due to cultural beliefs, strict
gender roles, and conservative interpretations of religion. Societal pressure to maintain family reputation and
fear of social stigma also contribute to its retention. Weak legal systems and inadequate enforcement enable
perpetrators to act with impunity. Economic factors like poverty and limited access to education further
perpetuate regressive attitudes. Combating honor killings requires addressing these complex cultural, social, and
systemic factors.

3) Explain the article 340 of the Jordanian Penal Code and its relations with honor killings in Jordan.

Article 340 of the Jordanian Penal Code historically provided mitigating circumstances for honor
crimes, allowing for reduced sentences or acquittals for perpetrators. This provision was rooted in the belief that
honor killings were justifiable to protect family honor. However, recent amendments have aimed to remove or
reduce legal defenses for honor crimes and promote accountability for perpetrators. The reforms reflect efforts
to prioritize the rights and safety of women, shifting societal and legal perspectives on honor killings in Jordan.
Despite these changes, further progress is needed to effectively eradicate the practice and ensure justice for
victims.

4) Why the scholars committee of the Islamic Action Front in Jordan opposed to abolish the article 340 of the
Jordanian Penal Code?

The scholars committee of the Islamic Action Front in Jordan opposed the abolition of Article 340
of the Jordanian Penal Code for several reasons. Firstly, they argued that the article was consistent with their
interpretation of Islamic law and was necessary to preserve the concept of family honor. They believed that
eliminating Article 340 would undermine traditional values and customs. Secondly, they expressed concerns
about the potential impact of abolishing the article on social cohesion and stability, as they believed it could lead
to a breakdown in family structures. Additionally, they claimed that existing laws were sufficient to address
honor crimes without completely abolishing the provision. Lastly, they asserted that cultural and societal norms
in Jordan should be respected and that external pressure for reform should not interfere with local traditions.

5) Explain positive and/or negative aspects of the phenomenon.

Loss of human life: The most significant negative aspect of honor killings is the loss of human life, particularly targeting
women. These acts of violence result in the unjust and tragic deaths of individuals who are often innocent victims of
cultural or societal norms.

Violation of human rights: Honor killings are a clear violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life,
equality, and freedom from discrimination. They deny individuals their basic right to live without fear of violence or harm
based on gender or family honor.

Perpetuation of gender inequality: Honor killings reinforce and perpetuate gender inequality by treating women as property
or objects to be controlled. They reinforce patriarchal values and restrict women's autonomy, perpetuating harmful gender
roles and norms.

Impunity and lack of justice: In many cases, honor killings go unpunished or receive lenient sentences due to cultural or
legal defenses. This creates a culture of impunity, where perpetrators believe they can escape accountability for their
actions. Lack of justice for the victims and their families further perpetuates the cycle of violence.