Understanding the Social Determinants of Female Genital Mutilation

Authors

  • Ranjana Nagi

Keywords:

Female genital mutilation, social determinants of health, policy, human rights

Abstract

The contested practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) is rooted in several social and cultural norms and prevalent in more than 30 countries across the world. This article aims to illustrate FGM’s geographical and historical prevalence, root causes, and clinical, social, and economic implications. Despite a higher prevalence in countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, FGM is also practiced in the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada. With substantial regional variability in prevalence, a girl’s or woman’s place of residence, education level, and wealth status significantly shape their personal FGM experiences. In applying a human rights lens to FGM, there is a strong case for eradicating its practice. Progress towards a world free of FGM will require tailored and data-centred policy solutions, contextualized to each FGM-practicing community.

Cover image: Reflections by Marissa Magneson and Joshua Prescott

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Published

2022-02-16

How to Cite

Nagi, R. (2022). Understanding the Social Determinants of Female Genital Mutilation. Revue YOUR Review (York Online Undergraduate Research), 7. Retrieved from https://yourreview3.journals.yorku.ca/index.php/yourreview/article/view/40605

Issue

Volume 6/7 (2019/2020)

Section

Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2020 Ranjana Nagi

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