Honor killings in Muslim and Western countries in modern times: A critical literature review and definitional implications

Honor killings are an ancient phenomenon that has been widely discussed in the professional literature. This article reviews the current literature in the field, using a socio-cultural theoretical framework, and critically examines the effect of modernization processes on the phenomenon, distinguishing between Arab and Muslim countries and Western countries. The review shows that despite modernization processes, and at times owing to concerns about these processes, the use of honor killings as a tool to strengthen patriarchal control seems to be widening. The impact of these trends on the definition of honor killings is discussed. An up-to-date literature review is necessary to raise awareness of this phenomenon of violence and to establish effective prevention programs. Directions for future research are also discussed.