Indonesian government under pressure to tackle FGM

The government in Indonesia has been told it must do more to stop female genital mutilation (FGM) being carried out.

According to the National Commission on Violence against Women, the procedure "abuses the reproductive rights of women".

Speaking to the Jakarta Post, deputy chairwoman Masruchah described it as an attempt to control the sexual urges of young females.

She has therefore urged the government to do more to clamp down on FGM after a resolution on the issue was passed by the United Nations (UN).

However, she said a ministerial regulation introduced in Indonesia two years ago legalises FGM, in direct contradiction to the UN resolution.

"This practice stems from the erroneous interpretation of cultural and religious teachings," Masruchah commented.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 140 million females across the globe are living with the consequences of the procedure at the moment.

The group has argued it does not offer any health benefits to victims and is a violation of their human rights.

(2013-01-02/figo)