Reportagem de investigação: Dores de Costumes (mutilação genital feminina)

Summary

The transcript highlights the persistent issue of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Guinea-Bissau, detailing its cultural, social, and legal implications. Despite legal measures against the practice, it remains widespread in certain communities due to deep-rooted traditions. The script covers personal testimonies from victims, activists, and medical professionals, emphasizing the devastating health effects and the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and eradicate FGM. The involvement of local leaders and the legal frameworks established to combat FGM are also explored, showcasing the challenges in changing ingrained cultural practices.

Takeaways

• 😀 The practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) is deeply rooted in some communities in Guinea-Bissau, often seen as a cultural tradition that has been passed down through generations.
• 😀 Guinea-Bissau has one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world, with FGM being one of the contributing factors to these alarming statistics.
• 😀 There is a widespread belief in certain communities that FGM is necessary for a girl to become a 'real' woman and to secure her honor and virginity before marriage.
• 😀 Despite FGM being a violation of human rights, it is still practiced in over 30 countries, with Guinea-Bissau being one of the most affected by this harmful tradition.
• 😀 Human rights activists and organizations have been working tirelessly to raise awareness and eliminate the practice of FGM, especially among vulnerable young girls.
• 😀 The United Nations and other international bodies have been promoting 'zero tolerance' for FGM, with February 6th designated as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.
• 😀 Traditional practitioners of FGM, who are often respected women in their communities, perform these procedures for a fee, reinforcing the continuation of the practice.
• 😀 Legal action has been taken against FGM in Guinea-Bissau, with the country passing a law in 2011 (Law 14/2011) that prohibits the practice, although enforcement remains a challenge.
• 😀 There are ongoing efforts to educate communities about the harmful effects of FGM, including physical and psychological trauma, with mixed success in terms of changing long-standing beliefs.
• 😀 While some regions, particularly in the East of Guinea-Bissau, still see the continuation of FGM, there are also signs of progress, with some practitioners abandoning the practice in response to education and activism.

Q & A

What is the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) described in the script?

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a traditional practice where the external genitalia of girls or women are removed, often due to cultural reasons or as part of initiation rituals in some communities. The practice is harmful and considered a violation of human rights.

Which country is highlighted in the transcript as having a high incidence of FGM?

Guinea-Bissau is highlighted in the transcript as having one of the highest incidences of female genital mutilation, contributing to significant maternal and infant mortality rates.

Why do some communities in Guinea-Bissau continue to practice FGM despite its harmful effects?

Some communities in Guinea-Bissau continue to practice FGM due to deeply ingrained cultural beliefs that associate the practice with femininity, marriageability, and social status. Many believe that FGM ensures virginity and honors the family.

What are the main health risks associated with female genital mutilation?

The health risks of FGM include severe bleeding, infections, complications during childbirth, infertility, and psychological trauma. Long-term effects can also involve issues with urination, menstruation, and sexual health.

What role do activists play in the fight against female genital mutilation in Guinea-Bissau?

Activists in Guinea-Bissau are working to raise awareness and educate communities about the dangers of FGM. They are advocating for legal reforms, providing support for victims, and conducting campaigns to change cultural attitudes towards the practice.

What legal measures has Guinea-Bissau taken to combat female genital mutilation?

Guinea-Bissau enacted Law 14/2011 in July, which criminalizes the practice of female genital mutilation. However, enforcement of this law has been challenging due to cultural resistance and limited access to justice in rural areas.

How is female genital mutilation linked to traditional leadership in Guinea-Bissau?

In Guinea-Bissau, those who perform FGM are often respected leaders within the community, sometimes matriarchs who oversee cultural rituals. These leaders may receive compensation for carrying out the procedure, further perpetuating the practice.

What impact does female genital mutilation have on women's rights and gender equality?

Female genital mutilation is a violation of women's human rights, as it harms physical and mental health and restricts women’s freedom and autonomy. It reinforces gender inequality by controlling women’s bodies and limiting their opportunities in life.

How have international organizations responded to the practice of FGM?

International organizations, including the United Nations, have declared zero tolerance for FGM, recognizing it as a human rights violation. They have worked to implement programs that support legal frameworks, educate communities, and provide care for survivors.

What challenges are faced in eradicating female genital mutilation in Guinea-Bissau?

Challenges in eradicating FGM in Guinea-Bissau include deep cultural beliefs, resistance from traditional leaders, limited access to education, and the lack of enforcement of laws. Additionally, many communities rely on FGM as a source of income, complicating efforts for change.