Female genital mutilation in the United StatesPainting -2ab

Hong Kong (2017) - 1,105

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Female Genital Mutilation in the United States (FGM in the US) refers to the ritual cutting or removal of some or all of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons, a practice that has been recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women. It reflects deep-rooted inequality between the sexes, and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against women. The practice is mostly carried out by traditional circumcisers, who often play other central roles in communities, such as attending childbirths. In some cases, health care providers perform FGM due to the erroneous belief that the procedure is safer when medicalized. FGM is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.

Prevalence and Legal Status

In the United States, FGM is considered a criminal offense at both the federal and state levels. The practice is concentrated among immigrant populations from countries where FGM is a cultural tradition. Despite its illegality, there are reports and cases that suggest FGM is still practiced within some communities in the US, often in secrecy or by taking minors out of the country for the procedure, a practice known as "vacation cutting."

Health Consequences

The health consequences of FGM include severe pain, excessive bleeding, genital tissue swelling, fever, infections, and increased risk of newborn deaths. Long-term consequences can include urinary problems, vaginal problems (such as chronic pain, discharge, itching), menstrual problems, scar tissue and keloid, sexual problems, and childbirth complications.

Efforts to Combat FGM

Efforts to combat FGM in the United States have included legislation, community outreach programs, and education campaigns aimed at immigrant communities. These efforts seek to raise awareness about the legal implications of practicing FGM, as well as the health risks associated with the procedure. Non-governmental organizations and community leaders play a crucial role in these initiatives, working to change perceptions and attitudes towards FGM within affected communities.

Legal Framework

The United States Congress passed the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996, which made it illegal to perform FGM on minors for non-medical reasons. Further strengthening the legal framework, the Transport for Female Genital Mutilation Act, passed in 2013, prohibits knowingly transporting a girl out of the United States for the purpose of undergoing FGM.

Challenges

One of the main challenges in eradicating FGM in the United States is the clandestine nature of the practice, making it difficult to detect and prosecute. Cultural sensitivity and the fear of stigmatizing immigrant communities also pose significant challenges to law enforcement and outreach efforts. Additionally, there is a need for more comprehensive data on the prevalence of FGM among immigrant populations in the US to effectively target prevention and intervention efforts.

Conclusion

Female Genital Mutilation is a critical human rights issue in the United States, affecting immigrant communities and posing significant health risks to women and girls. While legal frameworks exist to combat the practice, ongoing efforts to raise awareness, educate communities, and provide support to survivors are essential to eradicate FGM in the US.