Protection against Female Genital Mutilation to be improved

Date: 24th June 2019
Category: Civil Rights and Freedoms, Disability, Basic Health and Welfare

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A new Bill seeks to introduce Protection Orders specifically designed to safeguard women and children who might find themselves under pressure to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM).

The Female Genital Mutilation (Protection and Guidance) (Scotland) Bill, introduced to the Scottish Parliament on 29^th May 2019, also includes statutory guidance for professionals and agencies working in this area. The aim of the guidance will be to make sure agencies work together well to prevent and eradicate FGM.

Equalities Minister Christina McKelvie said:

“Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a deeply abhorrent practice and a fundamental violation of the human rights of women and girls. It is a physical manifestation of deep-rooted gender inequality.

“FGM is already illegal. This Bill will provide for increased protection with the introduction of protection orders and putting guidance on a statutory footing to improve the response of services.”

A Child Rights and Wellbeing Impact Assessment (CRWIA) for the Bill was published on 4^th June 2019, highlighting children’s right to be protected from all forms of violence (Article 19 UNCRC), and to be free from inhuman or degrading treatment (Article 37).

• Follow the Bill’s progress here
• Read the CRWIA here