Remembering Shafilea Ahmed: Her Parents Murdered Her In Front Of Other Children After She Refused An Arranged Marriage

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This week, people across the nation are commemorating the life of Shafilea Ahmed on what would have been her 37th birthday. 



Shafilea, a bright and ambitious teenager with dreams of becoming a lawyer, fell victim to an 'honour' killing in September 2003, perpetrated by her own parents in Great Sankey, Cheshire. 

The tragedy shook the nation, and now, on her birthday, a 'Day of Memory' is observed each year to remember all victims of 'honour' abuse.

Shafilea Ahmed

During the solemn event, a vigil was held alongside a conference featuring keynote speakers to address the concerning issues raised by Shafilea's case. 


The 'Day of Memory' aims to raise awareness about various forms of abuse, including the often 'hidden' problem of female genital mutilation (FGM). 

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Shafilea's untimely death, and it serves as a poignant reminder that there is no 'honour' in such horrific acts.

Leading the initiative to end honour-based abuse, Savera UK partnered with Cheshire's Police and Crime Commissioner, John Dwyer, to pay tribute to Shafilea's memory. 


The charity emphasized that while progress has been made in the past two decades, honour-based abuse continues to affect many lives in the UK. 

The 'Day of Memory' seeks to shed light on these issues and eradicate harmful practices for good.

Shafilea's life was tragically cut short when her parents took her life in their own home after she refused a forced marriage in Pakistan and embraced a more westernized way of life. 

Shafilea's Parents


The murder came after years of conflicts over Shafilea's aspirations to follow her dreams and interests. 

Despite her disappearance, her sister, Alesha, later provided crucial evidence that led to her parents' conviction. 

The court heard how Shafilea had been subjected to domestic violence and had suffered from her parents' cultural expectations.

Through this 'Day of Memory,' people aim to honor Shafilea and other victims by working together to prevent and end honour-based abuse. 

It is a collective responsibility to create a safer society where everyone can live without fear and pursue their full potential.



In another news, a three year old boy has sadly died after he mistakenly fell into an underground storage tank, See details here

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