Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a significant issue in Indonesia, despite global efforts to eliminate the practice. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines FGM as all procedures involving the partial or total removal of external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. In Indonesia, FGM is often linked to cultural and religious traditions, but it raises serious concerns regarding women’s health and human rights.

Prevalence and Cultural Context

Indonesia is among the countries with the highest prevalence of FGM. According to UNICEF (2016), around 49% of Indonesian girls under 14 have undergone some form of genital cutting. The practice is deeply rooted in community beliefs, with justifications ranging from religious obligation to ideals of purity, modesty, and social acceptance.

Unlike in parts of Africa where FGM often involves severe cutting, in Indonesia the practice is commonly performed as symbolic “pricking” or “scraping” of the clitoral hood. However, some cases involve more invasive procedures. Regardless of severity, the WHO classifies all forms of FGM as harmful, since they are medically unnecessary and violate human rights.

Health Impacts

FGM carries both immediate and long-term health risks. Short-term complications include pain, bleeding, infection, and trauma. In cases where sterilized equipment is not used, risks of tetanus and bloodborne diseases increase.

Long-term impacts may include scarring, urinary issues, and sexual dysfunction. Although some argue that the Indonesian form of FGM is “less harmful,” health experts stress that any injury to female genital tissue is risky and has no medical benefit. The Indonesian Pediatric Association and the Indonesian Ulema Council have issued varying statements, with some medical groups opposing the practice while some religious authorities continue to endorse it.

Legal and Policy Landscape

Indonesia’s stance on FGM has been inconsistent. In 2006, the Ministry of Health banned health professionals from performing FGM. However, due to pressure from religious and community groups, a 2010 regulation was issued permitting doctors, midwives, and traditional birth attendants to perform a form of “female circumcision.”

Following criticism from human rights organizations and international bodies, this regulation was revoked in 2014. Still, the practice continues informally, often performed on newborns or young girls, especially in rural areas. Enforcement of bans remains weak, as authorities are reluctant to confront deeply rooted cultural practices.

Human Rights and Advocacy

FGM is recognized internationally as a violation of the rights of women and girls, including the rights to health, security, and bodily integrity. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)—both ratified by Indonesia—oblige the state to protect girls from harmful practices.

Local NGOs, women’s rights groups, and international organizations such as UNICEF and UNFPA are actively working to end FGM in Indonesia. Their approaches include community education, advocacy with religious leaders, and policy reform.

Conclusion

FGM in Indonesia highlights the tension between cultural tradition and the protection of women’s rights. While the practice may differ in form compared to other regions, it remains a harmful and unnecessary procedure with no health benefits. Stronger enforcement of bans, combined with education and community dialogue, is essential to protect future generations of Indonesian girls.

References:

• UNICEF. (2016). Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting: A Global Concern.

• World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Female Genital Mutilation – Key Facts. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/female-genital-mutilation

• Ford, M., & Lyons, L. (2012). Indonesian Women and Local Politics: Islam, Gender and Networks in Post-Suharto Indonesia. Routledge.

• UNFPA Indonesia. (2020). Eliminating Female Genital Mutilation in Indonesia.