MEPs call for an end to female genital mutilation
March 24, 2009 5:10 PM
Originally published by Sarah Ludford MEP
Originally published by Sarah Ludford MEP
The European Parliament has called for an end to female genital mutilation, sometimes referred to as 'female circumcision' and traditionally carried on young girls in some communities especially in Africa. MEPs believe that many women in Europe are the victims of the practice, mainly in immigrant and refugee families.
The report calls for a clear strategy aimed at protecting girls and eradicating the practice from the EU, through laws, education and information. It recommends that health professionals should be obliged to report cases of FGM to health authorities or the police. The Commission is urged to include in cooperation agreements with third countries a clause on eliminating the practice.
London Liberal Democrat MEP Sarah Ludford, the party's European justice & human rights spokeswoman, said:
"Female genital mutilation is an abhorrent crime and a violation of human rights and we must not turn a blind eye to it. FGM can cause severe bleeding, problems urinating as well as potential childbirth complications and newborn deaths."
"MEPs have rightly called for a clear EU strategy for putting an end to this practice not just within Europe but globally. This has to be linked to efforts to improve the legal status of girls and women. Applications for asylum linked to escaping the practice must be fully considered, and granted if the evidence shows the case is genuine."
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