Document Type
Report
Publication Date
2018
Abstract
In Somalia, female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) prevalence is nearly universal at 98 percent. This qualitative study sought to explore: 1) views and experiences of married and unmarried men and women on FGM/C and potential changes in its practice; 2) individual, family, and societal factors contributing to any changes, or continuation of FGM/C; 3) the knowledge, views, and experiences of healthcare workers who offer FGM/C services and their role as change agents rather than providers; and 4) how healthcare systems’ capacities can be strengthened for management and prevention. The study finds that normative changes appear to be occurring in Somaliland society and there is a growing readiness for change. However, the nature of that change is not toward the abandonment of the practice per se, but rather its transformation into a more socially acceptable version, thus reinforcing the continuity of the practice.
Recommended Citation
Powell, Richard A. and Mohamed Yussuf. 2018. "Changes in FGM/C in Somaliland: Medical narrative driving shift in types of cutting," Evidence to End FGM/C: Research to Help Girls and Women Thrive. New York: Population Council.
DOI
10.31899/rh6.1005
Language
English
Project
Evidence to End FGM/C: Research to Help Girls and Women Thrive
Included in
Demography, Population, and Ecology Commons, Family, Life Course, and Society Commons, Gender and Sexuality Commons, International Public Health Commons