Best practices in the application of traditional values while promoting and protecting human rights and upholding human dignity

Many practices and norms that discriminate against women and other groups of people that have historically suffered discrimination and persecution are justified by reference to tradition, such as so-called honour killings, dowry-related violence and homophobic violence. Several States have taken actions to dismantle such traditional values, norms and practices, such as laws and programmes to end domestic violence and female genital mutilation, decriminalization of consensual sexual activity and media campaigns to counter homophobia. States should enact and implement laws, policies and programmes that prevent and penalize harmful traditional practices and promote human rights for all.