FGM, Religious Discrimination and Intersectionality - Position Paper 2024

This position paper explores the intersection of religious discrimination and the work of the anti-FGM movement, focusing on how religious misconceptions impact efforts to eliminate FGM and support affected communities.

While FGM is often wrongly associated with specific religious or cultural groups, its origins predate monotheistic religions and are rooted in patriarchal systems of oppression. In many cases, religion has been misinterpreted to justify the continuation of FGM, leading to misconceptions that the practice is a religious requirement. These myths not only fuel discrimination but also contribute to the stigma surrounding FGM survivors and hinder access to necessary support services.

Building on its previous work on racism and intersectionality (find it here) , End FGM EU established a working group on religious discrimination, composed of its members and ambassadors. This group conducted extensive research, including desk research and consultations with stakeholders directly impacted by FGM, to understand the role of religious misinterpretations in perpetuating the practice.

The findings of this analysis inform concrete recommendations to challenge these harmful religious narratives and advance efforts to end FGM, while ensuring the protection of religious freedoms and fostering inclusivity.

This paper emphasizes the importance of an intersectional approach in addressing FGM, especially in the current political climate, and offers actionable recommendations for stakeholders within the sector to address and dismantle religious discrimination both within the movement and in broader contexts.