SESSION OF WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2001

Female Genital Mutilation

Karamanou (PSE). – Mr. President, I would also like to congratulate Ms. Valenciano Martínez-Orozco for the quality and completeness of her report. It is a fact that for millions of women around the world, genital mutilation is something inevitable, a terroristic act that they must endure to ensure their survival. The absence of alternative options and the complete lack of information are among the most serious problems for those women subjected to this humiliating mutilation, which represents the worst form of oppression, terrorization, and exploitation of women, a criminal act that violates individual freedom, physical integrity, freedom of conscience, and the right to health, as it causes serious physical injuries and psychological effects, in addition to the impact it has on women’s sexual identity and reproductive function.

One hundred thirty million mutilated women in the world is a terrifying number. Unfortunately, this horrific practice has also been introduced in the European Union. According to a statement from the British Medical Association, three thousand mutilations occur each year in the United Kingdom, and, of course, fundamentalists, even within the European Union, do not hesitate to apply medieval practices in order to manipulate women and control their sexuality.

Every person has the right to protection under the law when fundamental freedoms and rights are at stake, as in the case of mutilation. However, there is a serious weakness in the law within the European Union. Therefore, we call for the implementation of legislation that will incorporate this horrific crime into the provisions of criminal law. And, of course, the European Union can exert significant influence within the framework of the economic agreements it makes with countries that practice such customs under the Cotonou Agreement, as well as by establishing extraterritorial legislation. In conclusion, I would like to appeal to the EPP to show our solidarity united with the thousands of women who have undergone this horrific process and to change your decision by tomorrow.