full version - World Organisation Against Torture

EritreaThe reasons given for supporting the practice of FGM include religion,custom, tradition, virginity preservation and deterrence of immorality. 45Additionally, as mentioned above, the procedure is consideredan essential social element of marriage. Although the vast majorityof women have experienced FGM, many women do not support the practice.46 This demonstrates the weakened status of FGM, a trend that is alsoreflected in recent initiatives to raise awareness aboutthe harmful consequences of FGM. For example, UNICEF, incollaboration with the National Union of Eritrean Women and theNational Union of Eritrean Youths and Students, has implemented a strategyto eliminate FGM in Eritrea. 47 The plan includes the following goals:to“identify and mobilize partners for FGM eradication; developcapacity for planning and implementationof effective communication programmes; strengthendissemination of FGM eradication messages in health facilities[and in communities] . . .; integrate FGM eradicationmessages in activities of selected institutions . . .; developand use effective IEC (information, education and communication)materials to promote FGM eradication messages;[and] develop communication supervision and monitoringsystems and use information collected for programmeimplementation.” 48While OMCT commends the efforts being made to raise awareness aboutFGM and its harmful effects on girls and women, there is still no law inEritrea outlawing the practice. 49 It is essential that the government attackthe problem of FGM on multiple levels, thus social awareness programmesmust be accompanied by legal change to prohibit the practiceand protect women.3.5 Sexual Abuse and IncestArticle 594-599 of the Eritrean Penal Code provides harsh penalties forsexual acts involving children. However, these punishments are rarelyexercised because such crimes are seldom reported.There is a lack of information concerning sexual abuse and incest withinthe family. The government report claims that the problem is209