Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children

Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (IAC) is a non-governmental organization founded in 1984 with the primary aim of addressing harmful traditional practices that affect the health of women and children in Africa. The organization's mission is to advocate for the elimination of practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child marriage, and other forms of violence against women and children that are rooted in cultural traditions across the continent.

History

The IAC was established during a seminar in Dakar, Senegal, in response to the growing concern over the impact of certain traditional practices on the health and rights of women and children. Since its inception, the IAC has grown to include national committees in 29 African countries, working closely with local communities, governments, and international partners to promote change and protect the rights of vulnerable populations.

Objectives

The main objectives of the IAC include:

• Raising awareness about the health risks and human rights violations associated with harmful traditional practices.
• Advocating for the adoption and implementation of laws and policies that prohibit harmful traditional practices.
• Supporting victims of these practices through access to healthcare, legal aid, and psychosocial support.
• Promoting cultural practices that enhance the health and well-being of women and children.
• Encouraging research and data collection to inform policy and program development.

Programs and Activities

The IAC conducts a range of programs and activities aimed at achieving its objectives, including:

• Educational campaigns and community outreach to change attitudes and behaviors related to harmful traditional practices.
• Training for healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and community leaders on how to address and prevent these practices.
• Advocacy efforts at national and international levels to influence policy and legislation.
• Support services for individuals affected by harmful traditional practices, including counseling and medical care.

Challenges

Despite its efforts, the IAC faces several challenges in its mission to eliminate harmful traditional practices. These include:

• Deeply entrenched cultural beliefs and resistance to change within communities.
• Lack of adequate resources and funding to support extensive outreach and intervention programs.
• Insufficient legal frameworks or lack of enforcement of existing laws in some countries.
• The need for comprehensive data and research to better understand the prevalence and impact of harmful practices.

Impact

The IAC has made significant strides in raising awareness and advocating for the elimination of harmful traditional practices. Its work has contributed to the enactment of laws banning FGM in several African countries and has helped shift public opinion against these practices in various communities. However, the persistence of these practices highlights the need for continued efforts and collaboration at all levels of society.

See Also

• Female Genital Mutilation
• Child Marriage
• Violence against women
• Human rights in Africa

Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children Resources
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