Twenty years after the honour killing of Banaz Mahmod, her sister Bekhal remains in hiding, living under a new identity. Bekhal testified in 2007 against her father and uncle for the murder of Banaz, who was killed after leaving an arranged marriage. Banaz had reported threats to police but was dismissed as manipulative.
Bekhal is now campaigning for 'Banaz's law', which would create statutory guidance on honour-based abuse, informed by survivors. Peers have tabled amendments to the crime and policing bill urging adoption, and the government has said it will consider the proposals.
However, Bekhal fears the current migration debate could deter victims from coming forward. She said: 'I worry, 100%, that the climate now could prevent women from coming forward today.' Sanskriti Sanghi of Southall Black Sisters added that framing migration as a threat to women is 'damaging' and reduces trust in the system.
Banaz's law would also make honour-based abuse an aggravating factor in sentencing. The government has committed to introducing statutory guidance and a definition but wants to avoid unintended consequences. Justice minister Alison Levitt said the government would welcome further discussion.
