New WHO Guidelines Aimed At Improving Care For FGM Survivors; Some African Men Speaking Out Against Practice

Deutsche Welle: WHO issues guidelines to treat 200 million female genital mutilation victims
“The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday issued the first ever guidelines to help health workers treat those suffering from the mental and physical trauma of female genital mutilation (FGM)…” (Winter, 5/16).

Slate: The World Health Organization Issues New Guidelines on Caring for Survivors of Female Genital Mutilation
“…Due to increasing migration from countries where the practice is common, WHO representatives said, a rising number of doctors in countries not known for FGM — including the U.S. and countries in Europe — are encountering patients with FGM-related complications…” (Cauterucci, 5/16).

Thomson Reuters Foundation: Female genital mutilation is a men’s issue, say African activists
“…The global movement to end FGM has been galvanized by women activists across Africa who have risked death threats to speak out against a practice widely condemned as a serious human rights abuse. But now a small number of men are joining their ranks. In Kenya, there is even a Maasai cricket team that campaigns against FGM…” (Batha, 5/17).

U.N. News Centre: New guidelines on improving care for female genital mutilation issued by U.N. health agency
“…The guidelines build on and contribute to international efforts to stop female genital mutilation, underlining the recognition that action must be taken across sectors to stop the practice and help those who are living with its consequences. The recommendations focus on preventing and treating obstetric complications; treatment for depression and anxiety disorders; attention to female sexual health such as counseling; and the provision of information and education…” (5/16).

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