FGM Practices in Ethiopia Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

FGM Practices in Ethiopia - Research Paper Example This paper tells that in Ethiopia and just like other African countries, FGM is a product of a culture that is associated with beliefs, behavioral norms, customs, rituals, social hierarchies, and religious, together with political and economic systems. Despite a cultural background deeply rooted in the conscious of both men and women in these societies, it is important for appropriate initiatives to be undertaken by all those who see this as a violation of women’s rights. Such appropriate actions are envisaged to include among others use of legal measures, outreach services, and health promotion and education programmes. Therefore, the sole purpose of the funding will be at fulfilling the set objectives within these three broad category areas in Ethiopia. World Health Organization (WHO) in its 2008 report described FGM to involve all the processes and steps that usually involve â€Å"partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injuries to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons and is considered a human rights violation†. Momoh has noted that FGM is a concept that has been supported by centuries of tradition, culture and false beliefs where it seems to be perpetuated by poverty, illiteracy, and low status in women, as well as inadequate healthcare facilities. In these societies, the practice of FGM is inherently linked to overall ideas about identity, sexuality, gender, and power. in addition, women who accept to undergo FGM are regarded in high esteem in the society that practice it while those who do not embrace the practice are viewed as immature women, unaccepted in the community and largely unqualified for marriage and childbearing. In essence, women who decide to undergo FGM are motivated by the need to be accepted in the society since punishment associated with not undergoing the practice include becoming a social outcast, rejection by peers and family, and loss of security and support.