ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for cases of honour-based violence and forced marriages in the United Kingdom. The first part of the chapter provides an analysis of immigration and diversity in the country as well as of British multicultural policies. The debate on so-called minority legal orders is then introduced, with a particular focus on the discussion on sharia councils and the Muslim Arbitration Tribunal. The second part presents an overview of the phenomena of honour-based violence and forced marriages in the United Kingdom, including the legislative and policy developments in this area and the discussion on the opportunity to use mediation or conciliation practices in connection with these crimes. Finally, the third part of the chapter provides an empirical analysis of case studies. The first programme analysed is the activity of a women’s (Muslim) non-governmental organisation in a middle-sized British city. The second case study, analysed through secondary data, is the London Kurdish Peace Committee. Both these organisations handle cases of honour-based violence and forced marriages by providing support to and engaging in a dialogue with victims and their families (perpetrators).
