When Female Genital Mutilation crosses borders: Exploring factors to discontinue the practice among Canadian migrants

It is estimated that female genital mutilation (FGM) is practiced on more than 2 million girls every year in Africa and Middle East. With growing migratory movements, the issue of FGM crosses borders into countries were such practices are uncommon, against women's rights and illegal. Canadian health services are faced with an increasing number of women with health problems related to these practices. Women's groups and health care providers have reported several cases were young girls were “cut” either in Canada or in their parent's country of origin while on vacation. Consequently migration does make individuals and families question these practices in their new socio-cultural setting.

The main goal of the study was to identify with a gender perspective, the place of FGM within the migratory experience by: 1. Extracting motivations to continue or stop FGM; 2. Understanding the decision making process and 3. Construct ideal-types of pioneer behaviour.

A Canadian study was conducted in 2001 with 162 African migrants from the 27 countries where FGM is practiced. Results from mixed analysis of individual interviews and focus group discussions will be presented.

Level of education is a significant factor in Men's' decision to discontinue the practice for their daughters. Contrary to expectations, it is the quality of the information Women receive about the disadvantages of FGM (B=10, 99; p<0, 05) and the risk of it occurring during trips to the country of origin (B=1, 66; p<0, 05), that serves as a barrier to them continuing the practice for their daughters.