Female Genital Mutilation

1. Female Genital Mutilation “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)