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Together, we fight against
gender-based violence in Mauritania
4
REGIONS
12
VILLAGES
+ 2000
GIRLS AND WOMEN
Article 12 of Ordinance No. 2005-015 currently prohibits the practice of FGM on minors and punishes “the act of harming or attempting to harm the genital organ of a female child, by infibulation, insensitization or by any other means.” The law therefore only applies to girls under the age of 18.
Ordinance No. 2005-015 does not explicitly deal with instigation, aid or assistance, nor failure to report FGM planned or carried out. However, it criminalizes FGM practiced by health professionals.
Female genital mutilation (FGM)
a great problem in Mauritania
Female Genital Mutilation is often conducted shortly after birth and is rarely practiced beyond a child's first year of life.
The most commonly practiced type of FGM is “flesh removed”
Around 93% of FGM cases are carried out by traditional practitioners
36.1% of women aged between 15 and 49 believe that FGM should continue.
An important testimony from our
President Oumou Oumar Bâ
Force-feeding of girls and women
a practice that exists almost exclusively in Mauritania
Female force-feeding refers to Mauritanian practices that encourage women to gain excessive weight to match local beauty standards. This practice is often associated with ideals of femininity and wealth, where an overweight woman is seen as successful and attractive. Women are encouraged to consume large quantities of food, including milk and cereals, in order to gain weight quickly. Force-feeding has extremely harmful implications for the health of girls and women, including risks of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Modern or toxic force-feeding
Numerous girls and women are opting for new and, in some cases, more hazardous methods to attain a fuller body, perceived as a symbol of wealth in the country. These approaches encompass the usage of products containing cortisone, including those designed for cattle weight gain, appetite-stimulating syrups, and even psychotropic medications.
“ We must continue to address the difficult issues to resolve them, and to raise awareness among people about their rights and responsibilities"
Aminetou Mint El Moctar - Mauritanian activist
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