Female Genital Operations: Canadian Realities, Concerns, and Policy Recommendations

Abstract

Examines the controversial issue of female genital operations performed in various immigrant groups in Canada, drawing on 1995/96 in-depth interview data from 40 community workers, 15 immigrants from countries where the operations are common, 7 physicians, & 4 nurses. The three types of operations (excision, infibulation, & refibulation) are examined in their social contexts. The practice is based on the dominant belief that all aspects of a woman's body should be controlled by men or other family members. Various legal & educational strategies designed to eradicate the practice are discussed, along with the connection between Canadian foreign policy & female genital operations in African nations. Attention is called to the inconsistency of Western attitudes toward these operations in light of widespread acceptance of other surgical procedures related to female sexuality. Growing global awareness of the consequences of female genital operations is discussed, along with the emergence of campaigns against them led by women who underwent operations. 3 Figures, 43 References. J. Lindroth