Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a traditional harmful practice that involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injury to female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is estimated that more than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone female genital mutilation in the countries where the practice is concentrated. In addition, every year, an estimated 3 million girls are at risk of undergoing female genital mutilation, the majority of whom are cut before they turn 15 years old.
Why does it occur?
There is no medical reason for FGM. The practice occurs for a combination of reasons, based on cultural, social, and religious practices.
Social reasons why FGM occurs
In societies with low literacy rates, social convention says, “it is what others do, and what we have always done.” Social pressure and a desire not to stand out as a rebel are a powerful force. In some communities, women who have not undergone FGM are not allowed to handle food and water because they are unclean, and seen as posing a health risk to others. For these societies, it is the “proper” thing to do as a part of the female upbringing. It is said to prepare a girl for marriage and adult life. In some cultures, people believe that an uncut clitoris will grow to the size of a penis, or that FGM makes a woman more fertile.
Cultural reasons why FGM occurs
To some, FGM represents decent sexual behaviour. FGM is often linked to virginity and being faithful during marriage. The damage to the genitalia means the chance of a woman having illicit sexual relations is reduced – because her libido is decreased, and the opening is too narrow. Femininity and modesty can be a factor. In some societies, a woman is perceived to be cleaner and more beautiful if her genitals are cut. Some body parts, such as the clitoris, which protrudes, are seen as male and unclean.
Religious reasons whyFGM occurs
None of the major religions prescribes female circumcision. People in some communities, especially where there are low levels of literacy, may have heard that the practice is a religious one. Over time, religions have tolerated, encouraged, and condoned the practice; but, today, many religious leaders are against FGM and are involved in the movement to eradicate its practice. If the people with power and authority in a place believe and agree that FGM should prevail, it is difficult to prevent it. People who may insist on its continuing include local chiefs, religious leaders, practitioners of FGM and circumcision, and some healthcare professionals.
A violation of rights with no medical justification
FGM has no health benefits. It can lead to not only immediate health risks, but also to long-term complications to women’s physical, mental and sexual health and well-being.
The practice is recognized internationally as a violation of human rights of girls and women and as an extreme form of gender discrimination, reflecting deep-rooted inequality between the sexes. As it is practiced on young girls without consent, it is a violation of the rights of children. FGM also violates a person’s rights to health, security and physical integrity, the right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and the right to life when the procedure results in death.
