In Belgium, committing honour-based violence or helping with it in any way (being an accomplice), is forbidden by law. It can be punished with up to 25 years of imprisonment.

If you are a victim of honour-based violence or if you are in danger of becoming a victim, you can seek help. Each CAW (Centre for General Wellbeing) has a special service you can go to called Slachtofferhulp (victim care). They can go with you to the police, a doctor or a court. When you go to a CAW, you do not have to give your name. You can get help and advice anonymously and free of charge.

If you find yourself in an emergency situation and are afraid of violence, you can go to a shelter.

You can also go to the police immediately to file a complaint. They are obliged to respect your privacy. If you are afraid of further violence or revenge actions, the police can protect you. 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. However, the police could arrest you because of your residence status. Therefore, it is best to be accompanied by a professional from a CAW or from another social organisation.