Underlying Reasons for the Persistence of Female Genital Mutilation
Underlying Reasons for the Persistence of Female Genital Mutilation
Underlying Reasons for the Persistence of Female Genital Mutilation
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ABSTRACT <br />
<strong>Female</strong> genital mutilation is an ancient custom that has preserved and persisted <strong>for</strong> thousands <strong>of</strong><br />
years. In recent decades it is recognized as a violation <strong>of</strong> human rights <strong>of</strong> girls and women since<br />
<strong>the</strong> practice has physical and psychological health consequences. Every year millions <strong>of</strong> girls are<br />
facing FGM, and in Africa <strong>the</strong> occurrence is common. There<strong>for</strong>e <strong>the</strong>re is a worldwide consensus<br />
where international, national and local organizations and governments take measures to stop<br />
FGM. This essay will examine <strong>the</strong> persistence <strong>of</strong> FGM though recognizing <strong>the</strong> various<br />
perceptions and motives behind <strong>the</strong> practice. Human rights law provides legal frameworks that<br />
should be adopted and adjusted by <strong>the</strong> states ratifying <strong>the</strong>m. Some conventions specifically<br />
describe <strong>the</strong> abandonment <strong>of</strong> violence <strong>of</strong> harmful practices towards women and children, and<br />
FGM is considered one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m. These approaches are tackling with a practice that is deeply<br />
rooted in social, cultural and religious traditions and must be understood in its <strong>for</strong>m. A case study<br />
research was conducted by semi-structured interviews where different perceptions and opinions<br />
on FGM were captured. This is later complemented with previous research and various statistics<br />
to streng<strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong> overall understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> issue. It is acknowledgeable to address women’s<br />
position in societies where <strong>the</strong>y generally has little access to power and resources, and where<br />
traditional and cultural practices mark an important social convention. It is not enough by<br />
implementing human rights law to change attitudes and behaviours. The decision <strong>of</strong> change is<br />
crucial by understanding <strong>the</strong> importance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> practice hence given <strong>the</strong> education needed to<br />
empower women’s everyday life.<br />
Key words: FGM, Human Rights, Culture, Tanzania,