In the Netherlands, committing honour-based violence or helping with it in any way (being an accomplice), is forbidden by law. It can be punished with a prison sentence.
If you are a victim of honour-based violence or if you are in danger of becoming a victim, you can seek help. Across the Netherlands there are organisations called Veilig Thuis (Safe at Home) which offer shelter, advice and support. They can accompany you to the police, a doctor or the court. When you contact Veilig Thuis, you do not have to give your name. You can get support and advice anonymously and for free.
If you find yourself in an emergency situation and are afraid violence will be committed, you can go to a shelter (Blijf van mijn lijf huis). The person who threatens to commit domestic violence or child abuse can be issued with a domestic exclusion order (huisverbod), prohibiting that person from entering the home for a period of 10 days. This period can also be extended by 4 weeks.
You can also go to the police immediately to file a complaint. They are obliged to respect your privacy. If you are afraid further violence or revenge will take place, the police can protect you. The police can also issue the perpetrator of the violence with a temporary domestic exclusion order (huisverbod). The police are obliged to treat you in a respectful and correct way.
According to the law, if you are without legal residence status, the police have to treat you with the same respect as other victims. The police will not arrest you if you have no residence permit, and you can report the crime anonymously. If you want, a social worker or other professional can accompany you.
