The law on honour oppression provides for stricter penalties for already existing minor crimes committed with honour motives – if they occur repeatedly. The minimum sentence will then be one year in prison. According to the prosecutor's office, several investigations into honour oppression have been opened, but closed.
– It is very difficult and complex to show that an act has been committed with a motive of honour, says Jessica Wenna.
According to Jessica Wenna, about ten investigations into honour oppression are currently underway around Sweden.
Why honour-related crimes are not detected
At the same time, there is criticism of the work of the police. Due to a lack of competence in honour issues, honour-related crimes are not detected, according to the Regional Support Centre in Gothenburg, among others.
– I agree. We need to increase competence at all levels, with us prosecutors, with the police and social services, says Jessica Wenna.
The law on honour oppression was introduced to increase the punishment for minor crimes that are part of a repeated violation of the victim's integrity with the aim of seriously damaging their self-esteem.