The Gambia: Law Against Female Genital Mutilation Upheld

In The Gambia, a small West African country, Parliament has just rejected a proposed law aimed at lifting the ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice prohibited since 2015. This decision follows months of intense debates and international pressures, highlighting deep-seated tensions within Gambian society on this contentious issue.

A Passionate Debate

On July 15th, Gambian lawmakers voted against a bill that would have repealed the ban on FGM and female genital mutilation. Had it passed, Gambia would have become the first country in the world to reverse such a prohibition, potentially sparking significant international repercussions.

The 2015 law had been praised by many women’s rights advocates and international organizations as a significant step in protecting women’s health and rights in Gambia. However, some lawmakers, like Almameh Gibba, argued that FGM is a deeply rooted cultural and religious practice in Gambian society.

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Arguments in Favor of FGM

Supporters of the bill, including certain religious leaders, put forth several arguments to justify reintroducing FGM. They claim it curbs sexual desire and premarital sex, as well as adultery, thereby safeguarding family honor. They also argue that FGM is a cultural and religious tradition that must be preserved.

However, these arguments have faced widespread criticism. In addition to being extremely painful, FGM has serious health consequences for women, including infections, bleeding, infertility, and complications during childbirth.

Health and Women’s Rights Implications

The pain and trauma associated with FGM are well-documented. Many women who have undergone this practice report difficulties in experiencing sexual pleasure, and some suffer from chronic pain. Moreover, FGM is often performed in unsanitary conditions, increasing the risk of infections.

The psychological impact is also severe. FGM can cause lasting trauma, affecting women’s self-confidence and relationships. Despite these risks, some continue to defend the practice in the name of tradition and religion.

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A Deep-Seated yet Contested Practice

Although FGM is an ancient practice, it has no basis in major religious texts and predates the advent of major monotheistic religions. Some communities believe that FGM promotes fertility, ensures better hygiene, and makes women more attractive by removing parts considered masculine or dangerous from the female body. However, these beliefs are widely disputed by health experts and human rights advocates.

In reality, FGM represents a form of control over women’s bodies, perpetuated by cultural and patriarchal norms. Efforts to maintain or reintroduce this practice highlight the challenge of changing deeply ingrained traditions, even when these traditions cause clear harm.

A Victory for Women’s Rights

The rejection of the bill by the Gambian Parliament is a victory for women’s rights. It demonstrates that despite pressures, there is a commitment to protect the health and well-being of women in Gambia.

However, the struggle is far from over. It is crucial to continue raising awareness and educating communities about the dangers of FGM and to promote cultural practices that respect women’s rights. Legislators, activists, and international organizations must work together to ensure that progress made is not undone, and that all women can live without fear of mutilation and trauma.

Conclusion

The debate over FGM in Gambia reflects broader tensions between tradition and modernity, religion and human rights. While the Gambian Parliament has taken a significant step in maintaining the ban on FGM, the path to a society where women’s rights are fully respected remains challenging. Efforts must continue to educate and protect women, ensuring that they are not subjected to dangerous practices under the guise of tradition.

The fight for women’s rights in Gambia serves as a poignant reminder that progress in human rights requires ongoing vigilance and commitment, not only from governments but also from communities and individuals dedicated to defending the dignity and well-being of all people.

Adapted from Zack Mwekassa’s video