C
Female genital mutilation
Name: Jana Aly Zidan
ID: 22-3-854
Female Genital Mutilation: A Human Rights
Perspective
Introduction:
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful practice that affects millions of women and girls worldwide,
primarily in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Rooted in cultural traditions, FGM is often seen as a
rite of passage, a marker of purity, or a requirement for marriage. However, it is widely recognized as a
violation of human rights that causes severe physical and emotional harm. This paper explores the
definition, types, cultural motivations, consequences, and global efforts to end FGM, highlighting the
urgent need for collective action.
Definition of FGM:
FGM refers to the partial or complete removal of external female genitalia or other injuries to female
genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is classified into four main types by the World Health
Organization:
1. Type I (Clitoridectomy): Partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or the prepuce.
2. Type II (Excision): Removal of the clitoris and the labia minora, with or without the labia majora.
3. Type III (Infibulation): Narrowing of the vaginal opening by cutting and repositioning the labia,
often sealed with stitches.
4. Type IV: Other harmful procedures, such as pricking, piercing, scraping, or cauterization.
Cultural Motivations for FGM:
FGM is upheld by cultural, religious, and social beliefs that vary by community.
Common justifications include:
o Preservation of Purity: FGM is thought to ensure chastity and control women's sexuality.
o Rite of Passage: Many cultures view FGM as a transition to womanhood.
o Marriageability: In some communities, uncut women are deemed unsuitable for marriage.
o Cultural Identity: The practice is often seen as a tradition that defines communal belonging.
Consequences of FGM:
The impact of FGM extends far beyond the physical act, causing long-lasting harm:
1. Physical Consequences:
o Immediate risks include severe pain, excessive bleeding, infections, and even death.
o Long-term complications include chronic pain, difficulty urinating, menstrual problems, infertility,
and complications during childbirth.
2. Psychological Effects:
o Survivors often experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
o The trauma is compounded by societal pressure to accept FGM as normal.
3. Violation of Rights:
• FGM infringes on women's rights to health, safety, and bodily autonomy, perpetuating gender inequality.
Global Efforts to End FGM:
The fight against FGM involves coordinated efforts across legal, educational, and community levels:
1. Legislation and Policies:
o Many countries have outlawed FGM, imposing strict penalties for those who perform or support
the practice.
o International conventions, such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child, condemn FGM as a
human rights violation.
2. Education and Advocacy:
o Public awareness campaigns highlight the dangers of FGM and challenge cultural justifications.
o Community dialogues engage local leaders and survivors to advocate for change from within.
3. Support for Survivors:
o Medical services provide treatment for physical and psychological complications.
o Counseling services help survivors heal from trauma and rebuild their lives.
Conclusion:
FGM is a profound violation of human dignity that causes unnecessary pain and suffering. While rooted in
cultural traditions, no justification can outweigh the harm inflicted on women and girls. Efforts to eradicate
FGM must prioritize community education, survivor support, and legislative enforcement. By empowering
women and fostering dialogue, the global community can create a future where every girl grows up free
from the shadow of FGM, living with health, dignity, and hope.
References:
o World Health Organization. (2022). Female Genital Mutilation.
Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/female-genital-mutilation
o United Nations Population Fund.
Retrieved from https://www.unfpa.org/resources/female-genital-mutilation-fgm-
o UNICEF. (2021). Ending Female Genital Mutilation.
Retrieved from http://www.unicef.org/protection/female-genital-mutilation
