Female Genital Mutilation: A Legal And Human Rights Perspective
- IJLLR Journal
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Sivalaeshwar N.P., B.A, L.L.B, [Hons], School of Law, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University, Tiruchirappalli.
ABSTRACT
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice that involves partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. This article explains what FGM is, why it happens, its health and human-rights consequences, and how the law addresses it. The language is simple so students and general readers can follow easily. The article draws on authoritative sources and legal materials.
Keywords: Female genital mutilation; human rights; international law; public health; criminal law; eradication; WHO; UNICEF.
Introduction
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), sometimes called female circumcision or cutting, affects millions of girls and women worldwide. It is carried out for cultural, social, or religious reasons, but it has no health benefit. FGM causes pain, illness, and long-term problems for girls and women. Many national and international laws condemn and prohibit the practice. This article explains FGM in clear words and describes the legal responses used to stop it.
What is FGM?
FGM means any procedure that cuts, injures, or changes a girl’s or woman’s external sex organs for non-medical reasons. The World Health Organization (WHO) groups FGM into four main types: from a small cut to more severe removal of external parts and closing the vaginal opening. The procedure is usually done when a girl is a child, but adults can be affected too.
Why is FGM practiced?
People perform FGM for many reasons. In some communities, it is seen as a rite of passage into womanhood. In others, it is linked to ideas about purity, marriageability, or control of women’s sexuality. Some people believe it is required by religion, but no major religion requires FGM. The practice is passed down through tradition and social pressure: families often fear shame, loss of status, or trouble finding a husband if they do not follow the custom.
