Love Island Star Shakira Khan Breaks Silence on Domestic Abuse Norms
Shakira Khan, the 23-year-old runner-up from Love Island 2025, is leveraging her newfound fame to spotlight a critical issue: domestic abuse. In an exclusive interview with Metro, she revealed how witnessing such behavior was normalized in her British-Pakistani community in Burnley, Lancashire.
Growing Up with Abuse as the Norm
Shakira clarified that she never saw violence in her own home, but it was prevalent among family and friends. 'That is the norm, domestic abuse is allowed,' she stated, expressing sadness over its acceptance. She highlighted examples like women being controlled by husbands who restrict their movements, such as not allowing shopping or socializing, turning workplaces into sanctuaries from fear.
She explained that this stems from long-standing oppression where women are treated as property. 'I think what it stems back to is that it’s been years and years of oppression against women, where they are almost property of the man,' Shakira said. Children, too, are affected, with some avoiding home by joining every afterschool club possible.
Channeling Anger into Action
Witnessing this reality fueled Shakira's passion for change. 'It made me angry, but also in a way that I could channel it into a passion, to do something about it,' she reflected. She emphasized breaking the cycle rather than perpetuating it, advocating for support over confrontation. 'I think the thing to do is to speak to somebody,' she advised, noting that direct challenges can be dangerous.
Shakira is involved with Refuge's Home is Where the Hurt Is campaign for International Women's Day, which reveals that home is often the most dangerous place for women. Statistics show one in four women in England and Wales experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, with 75 killed by partners or family in the year ending March 2025.
Cultural Barriers and Seeking Help
She acknowledged that cultural stigma makes it hard for South Asian women to seek help. 'I think it can be embarrassing, culturally. You’re meant to stay in marriage. Divorce is very stigmatised,' Shakira explained. Many feel trapped, believing they have no choice but to endure abuse.
However, she stressed that domestic abuse affects all genders and races, urging men to educate themselves and break generational patterns. 'It’s not just for women; I really think that men should educate themselves on this too,' she said.
Refuge's Support Services
Refuge offers a 24/7 domestic abuse helpline at 0808 2000 247 and a live chat service, providing free, confidential support. Shakira hopes her platform will encourage people to use these resources and challenge abusive behaviors safely.
By sharing her story, Shakira aims to inspire future generations to address domestic abuse head-on, fostering a safer environment for all.
