Title: Cutting the Rose: Female Genital Mutilation
First published: February 1995
Description: There is growing international interest in Female Genital Mutilation. This is partly due to the exposure of the subject by human rights activists and organizations and partly due to the emergence of the practice in the West.

Given that Female Genital Mutilation has a negative effect on both the physical and psychological health of millions of women, not just in Africa but also in Europe, North America and other parts of the world, what must be done to eradicate this practice? What are the lessons to be learned from past experience of work in this area? How can international interest be guided towards positive change?

In order to answer these questions, Efua Dorkenoo presents the facts about Female Genital Mutilation. From her research in the field and her work in Britain, she then gives a comprehensive update on work in Africa together with models of good practice to show how best to deal with the very diverse experiences found in different parts of the world.

Only from such models is it fully possible to explore such issues as the rights of women and of children, of the part which the well-being of women plays in the health of a nation, and also the strengths and weaknesses of the various international campaigns on the subject.

By offering much new information and clarifying many grey areas, Efua Dorkenoo shows the importance of offering professional advice which is prolonged, well-monitored and co-ordinated. This, in turn, should be supported with practical help, which is underpinned by the aid of local and international bodies.
Subjects: Clitoridectomy, Infibulation, Female circumcision, Cross-cultural studies