A Case Study Against Honour-Based Violence

Sofiya (*fictional name) grew up in Russia’s Northern Caucuses. She is a single mother with a debilitating disability. She fled with her children to Poland after escaping an abusive marriage. The family has since settled well, become integrated into Polish society, and built a stable life.

She visited ELIL’s project in Warsaw after reading newspaper articles about a woman who grew up in a similar region to her in Russia. She had also fled domestic abuse and was living in Western Europe, when her husband’s family tracked her down and killed her. Honour killings of this type are quite common in the region where Sofiya is from. She was scared that she and her children could face similar threats, and wanted legal advice about how to ensure their safety and legal residence in Poland. 

During the consultation, our lawyer reassured Sofiya that her current protection status in Poland guarantees her legal stay. They also discussed additional precautionary measures Soifya could take to protect herself and her children. 

The consultation helped Sofiya better understand her legal position, identify available safeguards, and reduce her fear and uncertainty. She left with reassurance and practical guidance on how to continue building a safe and stable life for herself and her children in Poland.

*Personal details have been changed to protect the anonymity of the applicant.