FGM in Somalia: A Consequence of Culture?

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a cultural practice performed on women in 30 countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Somalia has the highest prevalence of FGM, with other countries such as Sudan, Eritrea, Gambia, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sierra Leone also experiencing high rates.

Somalia has the highest prevalence of FGM, with other countries such as Sudan, Eritrea, Gambia, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sierra Leone also experiencing high rates. According to the Somali Demographic and Health Survey (2020), 99% of women in Somalia have undergone these procedures.

Globally, over 200 million girls and women suffer from FGM, with another 3 million at risk every year. Many organisations are fighting to combat this practice, including the FGM National Clinical Group, the National FGM Centre, and the Foundation for Women’s Health, Research and Development (FORWARD).

What is Female Genital Mutilation?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines FGM as "all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injuries to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons.” There are four known types:

• Type 1 (Clitoridectomy): Removal of part or all of the clitoris.

• Type 2 (Excision): Removal of part or all of the clitoris and inner labia.

• Type 3 (Infibulation): Narrowing the opening to leave a small hole, the most common form of FGM.

• Type 4 (Other): Includes other harmful procedures, such as pricking, piercing, burning, or scraping.

  
  

FGM typically occurs in young girls aged 10-14 and has severe consequences, including infections, incontinence, constant pain, and mental health issues. The procedure is often performed by family members without medical training, usually without pain relief or anaesthesia.

The Causes of FGM and Beliefs Surrounding It

FGM has historical roots, with origins dating back to the Pharaonic era. It has been passed down as a cultural tradition, a religious obligation, or a practice to make a girl more desirable for marriage. In Somalia, many believe there's honour in this practice, and it is seen as a way to ensure a girl's purity until marriage. Women who have not practised FGM are often shamed and diminished.

While FGM is mistakenly believed to be a religious practice, some claim it is sunnah in Islam, referring to customs encouraged for Muslims. In 2013, 18 religious leaders signed a fatwa, an Islamic ruling, against FGM. Despite this, 76.4% of women in Somalia still believe FGM should continue, and there is currently no legislation in Somalia banning the procedure.

FGM in the UK and Somali Migrants

For many Somali migrant families, younger generations are the first to avoid FGM. My sisters and I were the first women in our family to not receive FGM.

In the UK, it is illegal to take a British national or permanent resident abroad for FGM or to assist someone in trying to do so. Those found guilty of attempting to inflict or assist in FGM can face up to 24 years in prison. This is a significant step in breaking generational trauma and harmful cultural traditions. It may seem like a small change, but it represents progress and offers hope for a safer future for all Somali women.