Meaning well while doing harm: compulsory genital examinations in Swedish African girls.

Clicks: 430
ID: 53617
2019
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Ranked #5 of 9 articles by views in sexual and reproductive health matters

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Abstract
In this article, I discuss compulsory genital examinations in Swedish African, mainly Somali, girls. The discussion is based on data from 122 police files, including criminal investigations regarding suspected "female genital mutilation" (FGM). A growing body of research in European countries indicates that processes of cultural change are occurring among immigrant communities from areas where traditionally girls are subjected to what is construed as "circumcision". Many studies show growing opposition to these practices among people who have migrated to Europe, and there is little evidence to support the assertion that large-scale illegal activities are prevalent. Yet there is a dominant discourse stating that FGM is secretively practised on a large scale among some immigrant groups in Europe, and policies encourage the detection of cases to charge in criminal court. I describe the current situation in Sweden and highlight some of the drawbacks of a very harsh, although well-intended, policy to check for FGM in Europe. While the ultimate aim is to protect girls at risk for FGM, current policies have ramifications that are invasive and sometimes even traumatising for the girls involved. This paper offers an empirical example of how politics in western multicultural societies may negatively influence the sexual health and rights of a target group, in this case, girls and young women whose families originate from countries where circumcision of girls is practiced.
Reference Key
johnsdotter2019meaningsexual Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Johnsdotter, Sara;
Journal sexual and reproductive health matters
Year 2019
DOI
10.1080/26410397.2019.1586817
URL
Keywords
Migration europe politics sweden child protection female genital mutilation circumcision of girls female genital cutting forensic systems genital examination

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