Nearly 1000 "honor" killings are reported in Pakistan each year, murders by a family member for behavior deemed "shameful," such as a relationship outside of marriage. When Khalida Brohi lost a close friend to the practice, she resolved to campaign against it. Yet she met resistance from an unlikely source: the very community she hoped to protect. In this powerful, honest talk, Brohi shares how she took a hard look at her own process, and offers sharp insights for other passionate activists.

How I work to protect women from honor killings

Women’s rights activist and entrepreneur

Efforts to stop honor killings in Pakistan, where nearly 1,000 cases are reported each year, often face resistance from those meant to be protected. A failed campaign taught that challenging deeply held customs without local involvement can backfire and even endanger lives. By shifting focus to celebrating indigenous culture—through music, language, and embroidery—women started to gain confidence, financial independence, and leadership skills. This approach now supports hundreds of women across dozens of villages, proving that true progress grows from local roots.