International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has claimed a new law against female gential mutilation (FGM) in Iraqi Kurdistan is not being enforced.

A year after the new law was brought in, HRW says the Kurdistan Regional Government has not taken steps to implement it.

Joe Stork, deputy Middle East director at HRW, stated the move to pass the law against FGM was a "huge" step forward for the region.

"Authorities now need to begin the difficult process of putting a comprehensive plan in place to implement the law, including informing the public, police, and health professionals about the ban on FGM," he said.

A woman from Rania told HRW that FGM is still carried out in secret in some communities.

Several police officers also stated they have not been given any instructions on how to enforce the law against FGM in the area.

HRW, which is a leading independent organisation dedicated to defending human rights, gives a voice to the oppressed and holds oppressors accountable for their crimes.

Posted by Paul Robertson