- The Sudanese Government has banned female genital mutilation and considered it to be a historic step in the defence of women’s rights. There is, however, a concern that the law will not suffice to put an end to a socially entrenched tradition.
A person who performs the mutilation in or outside the hospital may be fined and sentenced to three years in prison. This has been laid down in the law of Sudan since 22 April. Activists have been pleased with the news and believe that the measure will help to stop this practice, but also that there is still a way to go.
Very dangerous practice
It is a very dangerous practice, as it can lead to serious medical problems such as infections, cysts, difficulties with pregnancy and painful sex.
According to UN data, 87% of women in Sudan, between 14 and 49 years old, have suffered some female genital mutilation. In the world, it is estimated that about 200 million girls and women have suffered this practice in 27 countries in Africa and in various areas of Asia and the Middle East.