The Irish government is currently trying to deport women and girls who are under threat of being maimed or killed by Female Genital Mutilation.
It is an issue put in the spotlight by the Izevbekhai family's case, next due before the courts in October. RAR will gather to show support for the family at the next hearing. Join our email list.
Pamela Izevbekhai’s case has been splashed all over the newspapers and TV, but the key issue has never changed: deportation to Nigeria would put Jemima and Naomi in grave danger from Female Genital Mutilation. Pamela’s profile and outspokenness against FGM would also leave her at serious risk. Whether it’s through a European ruling or through the Irish government, Residents Against Racism says that sense must prevail: the family must be allowed to stay.
What is FGM?
Female Genital Mutilation is the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, including the clitoris, for non-medical reasons. It is considered an act of violence against women and an act that ensures the continuance of gender inequality by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Where and to what extent is it happening?
- It is practiced in 28 African countries and several in the Middle East. It depends on ethnic group, not religion
- Worldwide 100-140 million have had the operation. 3 million are at risk.
- It is performed on 6,000 girls a day. Many die from the effects
What are the implications of the procedure for the health of the women?
Irreparable damage to female genitalia and reproductive organs; death from haemorrhage; frequent urinary tract infections; increased pain during menstruation; septicaemia; difficulty in conception and in childbirth; higher infant mortality; post traumatic stress disorder; psychosexual difficulties; unsanitary conditions and un-sterile equipment leading to transmission of HIV.
Ireland failing in its responsibilities
- In Ireland, unlike other European countries, there is no specific law to outlaw FGM
- Worse still, the Irish government has repeatedly refused to consider the threat of Female Genital Mutilation as grounds for granting asylum to women and children. Many have been deported to a very uncertain fate.
What You Can Do
- Contact Dermot Ahern TD, Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to express your views
- Get your local TDs and councillors to put pressure on the minister.
- Raise the issue in your trade union or community organisation.
- Get involved with Residents Against Racism's campaigns to support women and children under threat of FGM against deportation.
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