-A dishonourable affair-
Upon reading the article on the New York Times, I was infuriated, shocked and disgusted. In what most thought of as a modernized and seemingly civilised society today, such acts are still be practiced, not just in one, but in many countries. Why are such acts still practiced despite the fierce condemnation against it? On what basis do the people in such society feel that it was rightful for them to carry out this " honor killing ", how much "honor" can they regain by killing a young innocent life? Worst, Zahra was the victim of a kidnap and rape but yet, she was killed because of what her family thought of, that she had brought dishonor to their family. Furthermore, a celebration was held in Zahra's home after her brother had killed her and the whole village was invited for the celebration. Just what were the people thinking of?
Many blamed the religion or the government for such practices. However, I feel that it is the values that the families in such society are inculcating in their children that is the key factor that had caused the exacerbating problem of unjust treatment against women. All religion teaches and tries to bring out the best in the believer, I believe no religion will explictly credit unjust treatment to women and entitled men with special rights over the women. Education is the fundament to bringing about a civilised society. The main reason why the society placing of women and the improving of situation due to such unjust practices are not progressing is because of the lack of education for the public. Correct set of values, mindset, the ability to differentiate between what is just and unjust in their society are being barred from a child by his parents. They grow up learning and practising what has been taught to them without questioning the rationale and whether it is right or wrong. International help groups have been actively trying to garner support from human rights group in protecting the lives and rights of the women in such society, however, i feel that it is a solution only to the surface and is not enough to eradicate such practises. Yes, it will take a very long time before a significant decrease in honor killing can be observed,but the need to educate the people of such society is urgent. Unless something is done to change the mindset of the society, nothing much can be done to improve the situation.
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