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Applied and Extension

Breaking Up the Past: Dynamics and Contextual Drivers of Female Genital Mutilation Sunday OGUNJIMI*, Sunday Idowu OGUNJIMI, Tomiwa Awoyemi,

Different forms of cultural practices existed in different parts of the world. Some of them are beneficial, while others lead to negative impacts.  Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a deeply entrenched cultural practice, particularly in rural areas, despite international condemnation and growing awareness of its harmful health and human rights consequences. As per United Nations (UN) global estimates, over 200 million women and girls have experienced FGM. The largest share of the global burden is found in African countries with over 144 million cases, over 80 million in Asia, and over 6 million in the Middle East. FGM is often deeply rooted in cultural beliefs, symbolizing girls’ transition to womanhood and ensuring social acceptance, marriageability, and family honour. Furthermore, religious misinterpretations surrounding FGM include enhancing fertility and preserving virginity. Social pressure plays a significant role, with communities often enforcing FGM through violence against those who resist.  Factors responsible for FGM include illiteracy and awareness, social pressure, gender norms, and insufficient legislation and enforcement. Breaking up the past requires a multi-pronged approach that tackles the complex socio-cultural factors driving its prevalence. This includes education and awareness campaigns to debunk myths and highlight the risks of FGM, and strengthening legislation and enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable. This study explores the complex socio-cultural dynamics and drivers of FGM that are widely practiced in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Based on a mixed-methods research design (MMRD) and intersectional social, conventional, and feminist theories, the study assesses the interwoven influences of tradition, social pressure, and gender inequality. The study also incorporates case studies, the voices of victims, and statistical data to illustrate varying patterns and manifestations of FGM in the study contexts. Breaking the cycle of FGM necessitates a long-term commitment to social change, prioritizing human rights and empowering communities to create a future free from this harmful practice.