Harmful traditional practices, (male circumcision - Electronic Thesis ...

CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION
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With regard to virginity testing it is submitted that the practice has the potential
to violate a number of fundamental human rights in both the Constitution and
international law. The practice is degrading and humiliating and perpetuates
gender inequality by placing the burden of sexual responsibility on the shoulders
of girls to the exclusion of boys. It is submitted that virginity testing cannot be
justified and therefore it should be totally prohibited.
The practice of traditional male circumcision when carried out in unhygienic
conditions have the potential to violate a number of rights of boy children in both
international and Constitutional law. The practice of traditional male circumcision
require effective legislation that can be applied nationally in all the provinces.
There has to be collaboration between all stakeholders including non-
governmental organizations, human rights groups, the Department of Safety and
Security as well as the Health Department to ensure that circumcisions are
carried out in an environment that does not endanger the lives of children.
Furthermore, traditional surgeons should be properly trained and use hygienic
equipment when carrying out circumcisions.