In a world where traditions often clash with human rights, there's a hideous battle that deserves attention; Female genital mutilation (FGM), also known as female circumcision or cutting, and by other terms, such as Sunna, gudniin, halalays, tahur, megrez and khitan, among others, depending on the society or culture where it is done.
Female genital mutilation is the ritual cutting or removal of some or all of female genitals (the vulva). Although Rwanda has no known cases of female genital mutilation practices, the same cannot be said for neighbouring countries as FGM remains a grim reality in certain parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, and among their diasporas.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), female genital mutilation comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs "for non-medical reasons.” The UN health agency notes that the practice has no health benefits for girls and women and cause severe bleeding and problems urinating, and later cysts, infections, as well as complications in childbirth and increased risk of newborn deaths.
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In this article, The New Times delves into the practice of FGM, its physical and psychological consequences, and the global efforts to eradicate this silent cruelty.
Every year, on February 6, the world observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM. The theme for 2024 is "Her Voice. Her Future."
The United Nations strives to eliminate FGM by 2030, as envisioned in Sustainable Development Goal 5. The day is an annual occasion to amplify the voices of survivors, spread awareness, and mobilize action against FGM globally.
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The practice is internationally recognized as a violation of human rights, perpetuating gender inequality and discrimination against girls and women. It primarily targets minors and violates the rights of children, infringing upon the rights to health, security, physical integrity, and even life itself.
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The WHO classifiess female genital mutilation into four major types based on the severity of the procedure. The first type involves the partial or total removal of the clitoral glans and, or, the prepuce. The second type encompasses the partial or total removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without removing the labia majora.
The third, also known as infibulation, involves the narrowing of the vaginal opening through cutting and repositioning of the labia minora or majora. The fourth type includes various harmful procedures carried out on the female genitalia for non-medical reasons.
Immediate complications of FGM include severe pain, excessive bleeding, infections, urinary problems, and even death. According to UNICEF, no matter where or how it is performed, FGM causes extreme physical and psychological harm.
According to Dr Gideon Nsenga, a practicing obstetric gynecologist, long-term consequences can range from urinary and vaginal problems to menstrual difficulties, scar tissue, sexual challenges, childbirth complications, and psychological issues such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
"FGM leaves lasting physical scars, impacting the lives of survivors long after the procedure, from painful intercourse to childbirth complications," he said, adding that, unfortunately, the long-term consequences of FGM are not just physical; they extend to mental and emotional well-being.
The mental health ramifications of FGM are often overlooked.
The silence surrounding this practice exacerbates feelings of shame, isolation, and internalized stigma, he explained.
Cultural beliefs and tradition
The reasons for performing FGM vary across regions and cultures; social pressure, the need to conform, fear of social rejection, control over female sexuality, and false religious beliefs are some factors contributing to the perpetuation of this practice.
However, it's important to note that FGM is not endorsed by any religious text, and religious leaders hold differing positions on the matter.
Activists across the continent continue to challenge the prevalent beliefs, raising awareness, and educating people to change societal attitudes towards the dangerous practice.
"FGM is not a cultural tradition that we should protect, it is a violation of human rights that we must eradicate. Whether we are directly affected or not, we can all contribute to creating a world where every girl grows up knowing her worth and living without fear of this silent cruelty," said Aline Berabose, Founder of LUNA Africa, a local health-based organization providing teleservices for women.
Key facts
According to the WHO, more than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM) in 30 countries in Africa, the Middle East and Asia where FGM is practiced.
FGM is mostly carried out on young girls between infancy and age 15.
FGM is a violation of the human rights of girls and women.
Treatment of the health complications of FGM is estimated to cost health systems US$1.4 billion per year, a number expected to rise unless urgent action is taken towards its abandonment.