FGM In Iran: Unveiling A Persistent Tradition And The Fight For Change
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a deeply entrenched practice that violates the human rights of women and girls globally, often shrouded in secrecy and cultural complexities. While many associate FGM with specific regions in Africa, its presence extends far beyond, often surprising those unaware of its hidden prevalence in other parts of the world. One such region where this harmful practice persists is Iran, a country whose rich cultural tapestry often obscures the silent suffering of countless women and girls subjected to FGM. This article delves into the nuanced reality of FGM in Iran, exploring its prevalence, origins, devastating impacts, and the courageous efforts being made to eradicate it.
Despite significant global efforts to eliminate FGM, its persistence in various communities within Iran underscores the critical need for increased awareness, funding, and collaborative action. The journey to unveil and ultimately end FGM in Iran is a testament to the resilience of activists, researchers, and communities striving for a future where every girl is free from this harmful practice. Understanding the specific dynamics of FGM in Iran is crucial for developing targeted and effective interventions that respect cultural sensitivities while upholding fundamental human rights.
Table of Contents
- Understanding FGM: A Global Overview
- The Hidden Reality: FGM in Iran
- Pioneering Research: Unveiling Prevalence and Geography
- Roots and Rationale: Tradition Over Doctrine
- The Devastating Impact of FGM on Women and Girls
- Activism and Advocacy: The Fight to End FGM in Iran
- Challenges and Opportunities for Eradication
- Looking Ahead: A Call for Accelerated Action
Understanding FGM: A Global Overview
Before delving into the specifics of FGM in Iran, it's essential to grasp the global context of this practice. Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is recognized internationally as a severe violation of human rights, impacting millions of women and girls worldwide. It encompasses all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons. This practice is deeply rooted in cultural, social, and traditional beliefs, often perpetuated by generations without a clear understanding of its profound and lasting harm.
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Defining FGM/C: More Than Just a Cut
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines FGM/C as the partial or total removal of external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. This definition emphasizes that any alteration, regardless of its extent, constitutes FGM if it lacks a medical necessity. The procedure is typically performed on young girls, from infancy to adolescence, and in some cases, on adult women. It is a practice that denies women and girls their bodily autonomy and inflicts severe physical, psychological, and sexual trauma.
The Four Types of FGM
Globally, FGM is categorized into four main types by the WHO, each varying in severity and the extent of tissue removal:
- Type I (Clitoridectomy): Partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or the prepuce (clitoral hood).
- Type II (Excision): Partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora, with or without excision of the labia majora.
- Type III (Infibulation): Narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal. This is formed by cutting and repositioning the labia minora or labia majora, sometimes with removal of the clitoris.
- Type IV (Other): All other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, such as pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, and cauterizing the genital area.
Understanding these classifications helps in recognizing the diverse forms FGM can take, including those found in specific communities like Qeshm Island in Iran, where particular types of FGM have been identified.
The Hidden Reality: FGM in Iran
For a long time, the existence of FGM in Iran remained largely unacknowledged, often dismissed as a practice alien to the country's cultural landscape. However, groundbreaking research and the courageous testimonies of survivors and activists have brought this hidden reality to light. The prevalence of FGM in many areas of Iran remains high, challenging previous assumptions and highlighting the urgent need for intervention. This practice, often carried out in secret and under the guise of tradition, perpetuates a cycle of harm and silence.
While not as widespread or uniformly practiced across the entire nation as in some African countries, FGM in Iran is deeply entrenched in specific ethnic and geographical communities. It is primarily concentrated in the south and west regions, where cultural norms and traditional beliefs hold significant sway. The very act of acknowledging and discussing FGM in Iran is a crucial first step towards its eradication, paving the way for targeted awareness campaigns and support systems for affected individuals.
Pioneering Research: Unveiling Prevalence and Geography
The understanding of FGM in Iran has been significantly advanced by the dedicated work of social anthropologists and researchers who have dared to shed light on this sensitive topic. Their comprehensive studies have provided invaluable data, mapping the areas where FGM is prevalent and offering insights into its local dynamics. This research is foundational for any effective strategy to combat the practice.
Kameel Ahmady's Groundbreaking Report
A pivotal moment in the discourse surrounding FGM in Iran was the release of a comprehensive report by Kurdish social anthropologist Kameel Ahmady. His 2016 study, titled "Female Genital Mutilation in Iran (2016), Kameel Ahmady, 2016," and later publicized by media outlets like The Guardian in June 2015, definitively identified FGM in at least four Iranian provinces. Ahmady's meticulous research, often conducted under challenging circumstances, provided the first extensive empirical evidence of FGM's widespread presence in certain Iranian communities. His work, "Female Genital Mutilation in Iran in the Name of Traditions," became a cornerstone for understanding the practice's cultural underpinnings rather than purely religious ones.
The report highlighted that while FGM is not a nationwide phenomenon in Iran, its prevalence in identified areas is alarmingly high, posing a significant challenge to public health and human rights. Ahmady's findings were crucial in shifting the narrative from denial to recognition, opening the door for more focused advocacy and intervention efforts. His work underscored that to address FGM effectively, one must first acknowledge its existence and understand its specific manifestations within local contexts.
Key Provinces Affected by FGM in Iran
Kameel Ahmady's report and subsequent studies have pinpointed specific regions within Iran where FGM is most prevalent. These include:
- Hormozgan Province: Located in the south of Iran, this province was identified as one of the most notably affected areas, with a significant prevalence of FGM.
- West Azerbaijan Province: Situated in the northwest, this region also shows a considerable incidence of FGM.
- Kurdistan Province: In the west, among ethnic Kurds, FGM is a known practice.
- Kermanshah Province: Another western province, where FGM is found, particularly among certain ethnic groups.
Other research, such as "Related factors of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Ravansar (Iran)" by Pashaei T, Rahimi A, Ardalan A, Falah A, Majlessi F in J Women's Health Care 2012, further corroborates the presence of FGM in western regions. These studies collectively confirm that FGM/C is prevalent in the south and west regions of Iran, often concentrated among specific ethnic groups, including ethnic Kurds and ethnic Sunni Fars of the south of Iran.
Roots and Rationale: Tradition Over Doctrine
One of the most critical aspects of understanding FGM in Iran is its underlying rationale. Unlike some regions where FGM is erroneously linked to religious doctrine, in Iran, research indicates that the practice reportedly emerged in certain Iranian communities, particularly among ethnic Kurds and also among ethnic Sunni Fars of the south of Iran, rather than originating strictly from Islamic doctrine. This distinction is vital, as it frames FGM as a cultural or traditional practice, often passed down through generations in the name of preserving honor, cleanliness, or ensuring a girl's marriageability.
The idea that FGM is performed "in the name of tradition" highlights the deeply ingrained nature of the practice. It is often seen as a rite of passage or a necessary step for girls to become "proper" women within their communities. This cultural perpetuation can make it incredibly challenging to challenge and dismantle, as it is interwoven with community identity and social norms. However, by clearly distinguishing it from religious imperatives, it opens avenues for religious leaders and influential community members to speak out against the practice, emphasizing that it is not a religious requirement and thus can be abandoned without violating faith.
The Devastating Impact of FGM on Women and Girls
FGM is a longstanding ritual which continues to violate aspects of women’s sexual rights and inflicts profound and lasting harm on its victims. The consequences of FGM are multifaceted, affecting physical, psychological, and sexual health throughout a woman's life. A comprehensive study on the impact of female genital mutilation (FGM) on women and girls reveals a grim picture of suffering and diminished well-being.
Physically, FGM can lead to immediate complications such as severe pain, hemorrhage, infection (including tetanus and HIV), urinary retention, and even death. Long-term health consequences include chronic pain, recurrent urinary tract infections, menstrual problems, cysts, difficulties during childbirth (leading to increased risk of maternal and infant mortality), and sexual dysfunction. The procedure often leaves permanent scarring, impacting a woman's ability to experience pleasure and causing immense discomfort.
Psychologically, the trauma of FGM can manifest as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a diminished sense of self-worth. Many survivors experience feelings of betrayal, anger, and isolation. The secrecy and taboo surrounding the practice often prevent women from seeking help or even discussing their experiences, exacerbating their mental health struggles.
From a human rights perspective, FGM is a clear violation of several international conventions, including the right to health, the right to physical integrity, and the right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. It disproportionately affects girls and women, perpetuating gender inequality and denying them their fundamental human dignity and sexual rights. Raising awareness on the consequences of FGM/C is therefore essential for its prevention, as many communities where it is practiced are unaware of the severe and lasting harm it causes.
Activism and Advocacy: The Fight to End FGM in Iran
Despite the sensitive nature of the topic and the challenges of working in certain regions, a growing movement of activists and organizations is tirelessly working to end FGM in Iran. These brave individuals and groups are crucial in raising awareness, providing support to survivors, and advocating for policy changes. Their efforts are a testament to the power of human resolve in the face of deeply ingrained traditions.
One prominent figure in this fight is Rayehe Mozafarian. She set up "Stop FGM Iran" after writing her thesis on FGM in Iran in 2014, which was subsequently published as a book titled "Razor and Tradition." Mozafarian's personal dedication to the cause is profound; she states, "I did my thesis on FGM, which I wrote up in 2014, and since then I have continued to focus on this and have started a campaign." Her work exemplifies the commitment required to tackle such a complex issue. "Stop FGM Iran" serves as a vital platform for advocacy, research, and community engagement, aiming to empower women and educate communities about the harms of FGM.
These grassroots efforts are complemented by international advocacy. The theme for the 2022 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, which took place on February 6, was "Accelerating Investment to End FGM." This global call for action resonates deeply with the situation in Iran, where increased funds, better management, and enhanced collaboration are needed to support local initiatives. Organizations like "Stop FGM Iran" are at the forefront, translating global goals into local impact, providing resources, and building networks to amplify their message.
Challenges and Opportunities for Eradication
Eradicating FGM in Iran faces significant challenges, primarily due to its deeply rooted cultural nature and the secrecy surrounding its practice. The lack of specific, comprehensive national laws explicitly banning FGM across all of Iran, unlike in countries such as Iraq (Kurdistan region) and Oman which have specific legal provisions, complicates legal enforcement and protection efforts. This legal ambiguity means that the practice often continues unchecked in many areas, making it difficult to prosecute perpetrators or provide legal recourse for victims.
Another major challenge is the lack of open discussion and awareness. Many communities are either unaware of the severe health and psychological consequences of FGM or believe it is a necessary tradition. This makes it difficult to initiate dialogue and promote behavioral change. Furthermore, the practice is often performed by traditional circumcisers, who may resist change due to economic dependence on the practice or deeply held beliefs.
However, opportunities for change do exist. The comprehensive reports by researchers like Kameel Ahmady and the dedicated activism of individuals like Rayehe Mozafarian have opened a window for dialogue and action. The involvement of religious figures can be a powerful catalyst for change; as noted in Arch Iran Med (November 2021), eradicating FGM in Iran must be supported by missionaries who have a good influence on religious people. When religious leaders denounce FGM as a cultural rather than an Islamic practice, it can significantly shift community perceptions and encourage abandonment of the practice.
Increased funding and better management, coupled with collaboration among local activists, government bodies, religious institutions, and international organizations, are essential. This multi-sectoral approach can lead to more effective awareness campaigns, provide support services for survivors, and advocate for stronger legal frameworks. Learning from successful interventions in other regions and adapting them to the specific cultural context of Iran also presents a significant opportunity.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Accelerated Action
The journey to end FGM in Iran is long and complex, but not insurmountable. The data clearly indicates that the prevalence of FGM in many areas of Iran remains high, directly challenging WHO goals to eliminate FGM. To achieve this ambitious yet vital objective, both increased funds and management, alongside robust collaboration, are urgently needed. The global call to "End Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting: An Urgent Need for Global Response by 2025" resonates strongly with the situation in Iran, highlighting the critical window of opportunity that exists now.
Accelerating investment in research, awareness campaigns, and community-led initiatives is paramount. This includes empowering local activists and organizations like "Stop FGM Iran" with the resources they need to expand their reach and impact. Education must be a cornerstone of these efforts, focusing on the severe health, psychological, and human rights consequences of FGM, and clarifying that it is a harmful tradition, not a religious obligation.
Furthermore, strengthening legal frameworks and ensuring their enforcement is crucial. While Iran, along with Iraq (Kurdistan) and Oman, are among the few Middle Eastern countries with specific laws or legal provisions banning FGM, consistent application and broader coverage across all affected provinces are necessary. Engaging influential community leaders, particularly religious figures, can help shift social norms and accelerate the abandonment of FGM. Their moral authority can be instrumental in convincing communities that ending FGM aligns with both human dignity and true spiritual values.
The fight against FGM in Iran is a testament to the resilience of human spirit and the unwavering commitment to justice and human rights. It is a call to action for governments, civil society, and individuals to unite, support, and invest in the efforts to protect girls and women from this brutal practice. By working together, we can ensure that future generations of Iranian women are free from the shadow of FGM, allowing them to live lives of dignity, health, and full potential. Let us not turn away from this hidden reality, but instead, amplify the voices of those fighting for change and contribute to a world where FGM is truly a practice of the past.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this critical issue in the comments below. What more do you think can be done to accelerate the end of FGM in Iran and globally? Your insights and support are invaluable in this ongoing fight. For more information and to support the cause, consider learning more about "Stop FGM Iran" and other organizations working to eradicate FGM across the globe.
FGM Direct Work Toolkit – National FGM Centre
International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation
What Is FGM? Frequently Asked Questions - Public Health
