Knowledge and perspectives of female genital cutting among the local religious leaders in Erbil governorate,Iraqi Kurdistan region (2018)
This study is a Descriptive research regarding I FGM/C with the following characteristics:
Author(s): Ahmed,H. M.,Kareem,M. S.,Shabila,N. P & Mzori,B. Q.
FGM/C Type(s): I
Health area of focus: None.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and perspectives of the local religious leaders in Erbil governorate,Iraqi Kurdistan Region about different aspects of FGC
Study Population: Religious leaders
Findings: Participants stated that FGC is effective for diminishing or managing women’s sexual desire in order to prevent adultery,premarital and extramarital sexual activity,and to improve women’s hygiene. They indicated that FGC poses no harm if there is no excessive cutting. The majority of respondents ascribed FGC to religion,while others viewed it as a religion-infused practice. People rarely seek the opinion of religious authorities regarding female genital cutting,but they routinely complain about the practice’s ramifications. Participants did not favor a law prohibiting FGC for one of two reasons: either they believed it would be against the religious advise on FGC or they believed it would be ineffective. The local religious leaders lack adequate awareness regarding several elements of FGC,especially the health repercussions. Regarding the grounds for FGC,there are conflicting and divergent opinions,and there is little support for a law prohibiting the practice. Improving the local religious leaders’ understanding of FGC and its negative impacts on women’s health is an absolute necessity.
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Western Asia
Country(ies):Iraq