REINTERPRETING THE CONCEPT OF WOMEN SECURITY IN THE LIGHT OF HONOR KILLINGS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Women’s Security as a multifaceted approach encompasses numerous dimensions that includes freedom from any discrimination, physical safety and the rights to exercise autonomy and agency. However, in Pakistan honor killings pose greater threat to women security because of the interconnectedness of the prescribed gender roles, societal expectations, and cultural norms. This research study aims to explore the understanding of women security in the light of honor killings – a premeditated murder– through the theoretical lens of Social Constructionism. The notions of patriarchy often derived from preserving family’s honor are entrenched in the socio-cultural norms that set standards for purity and righteousness of women. By delving into the complexities of power structures and gender dynamics this research draws upon the theoretical framework of social constructionism that underscore socio-cultural norms. These constructed socio-cultural norms shape the beliefs and attitudes that not only create an environment for violence against women but also justify them as a mean to uphold social order and preserve ‘honor’. Therefore, the research study sheds light on the comprehensive strategies to combat such heinous crime through legislative reforms, gender sensitized trainings, educational initiatives, and empowerment of women to reshape prevailing structures and narratives.