1. Female Genital Mutilation Cultural Support for FGM
“Female genital mutilation (FGM) includes procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons” (World Health Organization, 2013)
What is FGM?
Where is FGM happening?
FGM is most prevalent in the western, eastern, and north-eastern regions of Africa. It is most common in Somalia, where virtually all young girls undergo the procedure, often in the most harmful form.
FGM also takes place in some countries in the Middle East and Asia.
Why is FGM a global issue?
The practice of FGM perpetuates a patriarchal system. Countries that have higher rates of FGM are most often lacking in women’s rights.
Women and young girls who have been victimized by FGM may migrate to other countries and need to receive proper medical care and supportive services.
In 2012, the United Nations General Assembly accepted a resolution on the elimination of FGM.
FGM affects between 130 and 140 million women worldwide, with another 2 to 3 million being added each year.
Four Types of FGM
Type I: Clitoridectomy
Partial or total removal of the clitoris
Type II: Excision
Partial or total removal of the clitoris and labia minora
Type III: Infibulation
Most radical form; partial or total removal of the external genitalia and sealing of the vaginal opening
Type IV: Other
All other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes (e.g. piercing, pricking, scraping, etc.)
Global Response to FGM
Countries are enforcing laws against FGM
24 African countries
12 industrialized countries with migrant populations from FGM practicing countries
Uganda, as an example, has been a leader in the abolishment of FGM
The Uganda Constitutional Committee supported the importance of human rights over the right to cultural practices
The Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act was enacted in 2009
Conducted consultative tours and met with various community members in areas that still practiced FGM
Opening of nonprofit organizations to support those who have been victimized
Other intervention methods have included: education, engaging community members in local campaigns, empowering women, and facilitating dialogue through the media (music, theater, films)
Consequences of FGM
Physical
Heavy bleeding
Urine retention
Infections
Chronic anemia
Infertility
Higher risk of HIV/AIDS
Higher risk of childbirth complications and newborn death
Social/Mental
Feelings of fear, inferiority and suppression
Nightmares
Higher risk of psychiatric diseases
Loss of sexual desire
Lack of confidence in those close to them
Cultural Support for FGM
Social pressure to conform
Considered a necessary part of raising a girl
Premarital virginity
Marital fidelity
Ideals of femininity and modesty
Local structures of power and authority
Cultural tradition
“Female genital mutilation should not be addressed in terms of being a single act isolated to certain parts of the world but as a global issue of human rights, freedom from violence, and economic equality” (Monogan, 2010)