Female genial mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) reflects deep-rooted inequalities between the sexes and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against women. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that 100 to 140 million women and girls worldwide are currently living with the consequences of FGM/C and every year 3 million girls are at risk for the procedure. FGM/C is practiced in five of Yemen’s 21 governorates, with prevalence rates over 96% in three of the governorates.
In order to reduce female genital mutilation the Yemeni Government has drawn up a national action plan with the goal of reducing the practice by 30 per cent by 2012. The plan, that has yet to be presented to the Cabinet for approval, is a combination of bylaws, codes of conduct, media campaigns and public education. It would ban all forms of FGM/C and require health professionals to take an oath not to practice the procedure. Religious leaders would inform the public of the need to eliminate FGM/C and FGM/C would be included in school curriculum.
Female genital mutilation/cutting is the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. FGM/C is associated with many health risks. Apart from pain, severe bleeding and trauma from the procedure, FGM/C also can also cause include urine retention, recurrent urinary tract infections, cysts, abscesses, tetanus, sepsis, decreased sexual enjoyment, infertility, post-traumatic stress disorder, psychological consequences, death, childbirth complications and newborn deaths.
The reasons for practicing female genital mutilation/cutting include a mix of cultural, religious and social factors. It is often considered a part of proper sexual behaviour and a necessary part of raising a girl as well. It is associated with femininity, modesty and virginity.
Female genital mutilation is internationally recognized as a violation of human rights of girls and women since the practice violates the right 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.
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