Study Notes on Female Circumcision as a Human Rights Violation

Female Circumcision as a Human Rights Violation

Definition and Position

  • The speaker strongly considers female circumcision to be a violation of human rights.

Violations of the UN Declaration of Human Rights

  • The practice of female circumcision violates multiple articles of the UN Declaration of Human Rights:
    • Article 1: Asserts that "all humans are born free and equal in dignity and rights."
    • Article 2: States that "everyone is entitled to all rights and freedoms without distinction of any kind such as race and sex."
    • Article 5: Declares that "no one shall be subjugated to torture or cruel/inhumane treatment."

Health Implications

  • Female circumcision has no health benefits and is associated with severe adverse health outcomes:
    • Severe Pain: Women may experience intense discomfort post-procedure.
    • Excessive Bleeding: Potential for significant blood loss during and after the operation.
    • Urinating Problems: Complications can lead to difficulties with urination.
    • Infections: Increased risk of infections that can pose life-threatening complications, including potential death.
    • Complications in Childbirth: May contribute to complications during childbirth, heightening the risk for both mother and newborn, including the risk of newborn death.

Impact on Women and Children

  • The World Health Organization recognizes female circumcision as a violation of the human rights of both women and children, as the procedure is often performed on young girls, typically between infancy and age 15.

Misinformation and Cultural Beliefs

  • There exists a prevalent misinformation suggesting that the practice has religious backing and prepares girls for adulthood and marriage.
    • However, it is emphasized that there are no religious texts that mandate or support this practice.
  • The primary motivation for female circumcision is to control women's sexuality and maintain patriarchal control, which is a severe form of discrimination and inequality.

Advocacy and Future Perspectives

  • The speaker expresses hope that increasing awareness, advocacy, and pressures on foreign governments will contribute to the eradication of this practice.
  • Nonetheless, there is skepticism about the complete end of female circumcision, as it is deeply ingrained in many cultures as a social norm.
  • The persistence of this practice may continue due to cultural indoctrination spanning generations, with older women still advocating for its continuation.
  • Female circumcision is reported to occur in over 30 countries across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, suggesting a complex and widespread issue that will require considerable time to address effectively.

Conclusion

  • The speaker's belief is that despite efforts for change, the cultural entrenchment of female circumcision presents significant challenges for its ultimate eradication.