Female Genital Mutilation A Violation Of Human Rights

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines female genital mutilation (FGM) as â€Å"all procedures which involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or any other non-therapeutic reasons.† There are four classifications of female genital mutilation: type I consists of the removal of the prepuce; type II is the removal of the clitoris and labia minora; type III is the removal of the external genitalia and the restricting the vaginal opening; and type IV encompasses all the other procedures to the female genitalia, such as pricking, stretching, scraping, piercing, or cutting. Human rights activists argue that female genital mutilation is a violation of human rights deeply rooted in gender inequality and discrimination. On the other hand, others argue that the practice is supported by fundamental cultural traditions that should not be banned. In this paper, I will be focusing on the practice of female genital mutilation, its harmful effects, and how the rights of women and girls trumps the right to culture. The practice of female genital mutilation predates Islam and Christianity, dating back to 2000 years ago in Ancient Egypt, where it was believed to be a sign of aristocracy. Today, female genital mutilation promotes gender inequality and discrimination against women. Now embedded in many cultures, female genital mutilation is necessary for marriage. For the 28 African countries and 130Show MoreRelatedFemale Genital Mutilation And Human Rights Violations2013 Words   |  9 PagesWhen a human rights violation occurs, the violated individual is deprived o f his or her basic freedoms—the right to life, liberty, and security. When individuals experience human rights violations it is not of their own volition. 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