In a significant development, the Islamic authority in Djibouti has issued a fatwa, or Islamic edict, stating that female genital mutilation (FGM) is not a part of Islam. This move is part of a broader effort by the government to combat the practice, which has been a longstanding concern in the East African country. The fatwa was issued after extensive discussions and consultations with Islamic scholars and experts.
The fatwa was announced by Sheikh Abd al-Rahman Muhammad Ali "Shams al-Din", head of the High Islamic Authority, in an interview with Al Qarn newspaper. According to Sheikh Shams al-Din, the decision to issue the fatwa was not a sudden one, but rather the culmination of a process that began in 2008, when the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments was established. The ministry has since been working to address the issue of FGM from a religious perspective.
The practice of FGM has been a deeply ingrained tradition in some parts of Djibouti, particularly in rural areas. However, the government and Islamic authorities have been working to change attitudes and perceptions. The fatwa is seen as a significant step in this effort, as it provides a clear and authoritative statement on the issue from a religious perspective. The fatwa emphasizes that FGM causes psychological, health and social harm.
According to Sheikh Shams al-Din, the fatwa was issued after a thorough review of Islamic jurisprudence and consultation with experts. The decision was also influenced by the findings of medical research, which has shown that FGM has serious and long-lasting consequences for women's health. The fatwa has been welcomed by many in Djibouti, who see it as a crucial step towards ending the practice of FGM.
The government of Djibouti has been working to combat FGM for several years, with support from international organizations such as UNICEF and the UN Population Fund. The country has made significant progress in reducing the prevalence of FGM, from around 98% to around 74% in recent years. However, much work remains to be done to eliminate the practice entirely.
The fatwa is seen as an important tool in this effort, as it provides a clear and authoritative statement on the issue from a religious perspective. The government and Islamic authorities are working together to disseminate the fatwa and raise awareness about the issue. This includes working with local communities, religious leaders and women's groups to promote a culture of abandonment of FGM.
The Djibouti government plans to continue its efforts to combat FGM, with a focus on education and awareness-raising. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments will work with other government agencies, as well as with civil society organizations and international partners, to promote a culture of abandonment of FGM. The goal is to eliminate the practice entirely and protect the rights and health of women and girls in Djibouti.
Key points
- The fatwa declares FGM not part of Islam, citing psychological, health and social harm.
Reporting sources
- Al Qarn · Al Qarn
