Introduction and Rationale
The practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) has no health benefits and is purely related to cultural norms and traditional misconceptions, and – according to WHO - it “comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs”1
1 World Health Organization: Female Gentile Mutilation https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/female-genital-mutilation .
IPPF AWRO office is currently leading an initiative to support researchers worldwide to conduct studies and collect data related to FGM in humanitarian settings globally.
Female genital mutilation (FGM) stands as one of the most egregious violations of human rights, particularly affecting women and girls worldwide. However, when conflict and forced displacement enter the equation, the horrors of FGM are exacerbated, creating a dire situation that demands urgent attention and action. Where instability and insecurity prevail, the prevalence of FGM often intensifies, exacerbated by factors such as displacement, poverty, and the breakdown of social systems.
FGM is internationally considered as human rights violation with the estimation of around 230 million women and girls have globally undergone some form of it in several countries (Africa, Middle East and Asia) Despite intensive endeavors to eliminate it, and considering it a harmful practice to be eliminated (under SDG goals under target 5.3) the practice is still prevalent.
A terrifying trend has recently gained significant ground , it is the medicalization of FGM ; FGM is practiced by health care providers in public/private clinics, a home or elsewhere. The aim of the practice is to legitimize the FGM and give the impression that it does not have health consequences.
The phenomena poses a major issue in humanitarian contexts, where displaced and vulnerable populations are at heightened risk due to instability, armed conflict, displacement, and insufficient healthcare access…. In these environments, cultural traditions related to FGM may persist or become more entrenched, influenced by factors like limited education, economic challenges, and deeply rooted beliefs. The high prevalence of FGM in these settings highlights the critical necessity for targeted interventions that integrate awareness campaigns, community involvement, and improved healthcare accessibility.
In humanitarian settings, the prevalence of FGM increased several countries having high rate of FGM, coupled with humanitarian crisis :
Displacement and migration influx : Egypt (Sudanese migrants) Iraq (Kurds) Mauritania (African Migrants), Pakistan (Afghan Refugees), Mali (migrants and asylum seekers from Sahel region)
Climate change (mainly drought) : Chad, Somalia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Mauritania
Armed Conflict; Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Ethiopia
Political instability : Iraq, Niger,
Objective of the Consultancy
- To understand the factors associated with applying FGM in humanitarian settings.
- To map the FGM applicable types with reference to locations.
- To navigate all possible consequences of FGM in humanitarian settings
- To investigate the possibilities that FGM prevention and response are integrated into emergency response efforts in the addressing the specific vulnerabilities and needs of affected populations.
- To validate available other factors associated with FGM practice including :
Identity and social belonging :
Marriageability
Guiding principles
IPPF AWRO is searching group of researchers whether individual researcher(s) or group of researchers to collect and verify information about FGM in humanitarian setting in ( Mali, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iraq, Mauritania, Somalia, Chad, Yemen, Pakistan)
The list above consists of the priority country yet it is not exclusive, more countries can be added under the condition that humanitarian situation is prevailing in the country.
Deliverables and Methodology of the consultancy:
The consultant will provide a clearer overview through the below methodology:
- Literature review and analysis:
- Gathering comprehensive data on the prevalence, types, and cultural contexts of FGM within the specific humanitarian setting. This includes quantitative data (e.g., prevalence rates, demographic information) and qualitative data (e.g., cultural beliefs, community perceptions).
- Problem statement :
- This will include Identifying the factors that contribute to the practice of FGM in humanitarian settings. This involves understanding the social, cultural, economic, and institutional drivers that perpetuate FGM.
- Recommendation : This will encompass:
- Intervention Strategies: Developing evidence-based interventions to prevent and respond to FGM in humanitarian settings. This may involve designing community-based education programs, training healthcare providers, and engaging with local leaders and communities to promote abandonment of the practice.
- Policy and Advocacy : Providing recommendations for policy makers, humanitarian agencies, and civil society organizations to integrate FGM prevention and response into broader health, gender, and protection initiatives. This includes advocating for legal frameworks that protect women and girls from FGM and support survivors.
Timeframe:
Research will be conducted over a timeframe of 45 days, Starting date 15th September.
Requirements of Applicants :
Applicants should submit their CVs and cover letter detailing their experience in research in / work with relevant subjects/projects.
In the case of group researchers, all members should submit separate CV and cover letter in one submission email.
Financial offer: applicants should submit their financial offer with their application.
Deadlines to receive application :
The deadline to receive application is 30 August 2024.
Contact :
All applications should be submitted to [email protected] With copy to : [email protected]
Under the subject : Research Application _ in humanitarian setting
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