På rakbladets kant: Unga, somaliska kvinnors syn på kvinnlig könsstympning

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the approach and views on female genital mutilation (FGM) among young women from Somalia, and how they perceive the tradition after immigration to Sweden. This is structured under the following questions: What do they know about FGM? What are their experiences? And what do they reckon about FGM today? The study is based on one recorded interview with a group of young females from Somalia. The data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The women’s feelings were ambivalent though they on one hand opposed FGM because of serious health risks, but on the other hand were conscious of the tradition’s great influence in the social network and daily life. The main findings emerged were FGM strongly connected to culture and tradition, social status and the family’s honour. Lack of knowledge and education, positive perceiving among the elder generation and the women’s impotency were other findings. The study also reflects that a variety of ethical aspects are included in the tradition of FGM. The result indicates that FGM is a convoluted tradition. It is a symbol for culture closely linked to society structures. The findings shows that more knowledge is needed to make it possible for outsiders to understand the tradition’s sympathiser’s and vice verse. The study also elucidates the many ethical aspects included in the tradition important to have in consideration. FGM needs to be brought up for discussion and uncovered from its taboo.