FGM in Latin America: ethno-cultural backgrounds and the impact of migration

Background Female genital mutilation (FGM) is commonly practiced in Africa and in some parts of Asia. Little-known, also in Western Colombia an indigenous community called Embera continues with the practice to this day.

Due to the lack of documentation and the closed community, the practise of FGM in this population is not studied. In fact, the tradition was a taboo until a 2007, when a new-born girl died as result of FGM.

Material and Methods A narrative analysis of the existing literature in Spanish and English was carried out on the topics: FGM in Latin America, role of women in Embera society, structure of traditional medicine, and aspects of childbirth. In addition, reasons and epidemiological peculiarities of the phenomenon were analysed.

Results The practise of FGM seems to be external to the Embera population. The origin is presumed to be an intercultural diffusion between the community and refuged Afrocolombians after the abolition of slavery in 1851. The present prevalence and severity of FGM in these two ethnic groups declined with the integration into mainstream Colombian culture.

In addition, this analysis recreates the picture of a woman as a part of the Embera society with an emphasis on medical and obstetrical aspects.

Discussion The analysed literature underlines the necessity of access to education and healthcare system to eradicate the problem of FGM. The phenomenon of intercultural exchange and influence of big migration masses into this region of Colombia also represent a micromodel of global processes which Europe is facing today.

Publication History

Article published online:
07 October 2020