FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION

Female Genital Mutilation: translation

(FGM)

   FMG, or female circumcision, is the intentional partial removal of the clitoris practiced for traditional cultural and religious reasons in the Middle East, including the Kurdish areas. Advocates argue that it reduces the sexual desire of women and thus makes them eligible for marriage and less likely to be unfaithful to their husbands. Critics correctly dismiss such ignorant claims and point out that the practice can lead to long-term health problems, including infection, painful sexual intercourse, psychological trauma, and sterility. The problem is particularly prevalent among many Kurdish women, even in the diaspora. In recent years, there has been an attempt to end FGM, but the practice continues because of its sensitive nature and its frequent association with conservative religious beliefs.