140 million women, girls suffer genital mutilation
PARIS, France (AP)
The body of Katoucha Niane, one of the first African women to attain
international stardom as a model and a vocal opponent of female genital
mutilation, was found in the Seine River, police said Friday. (more here)
The body of former top model Katoucha Niane has been found in the river Seine.
Norman wrote, "very
sad, she was a mother and a thoughtful caring person."
The keystone cops say there was no sign of foul play - but she had been missing since January. I'll bet there is more to this story.
A statement issued on behalf of UN agencies in Abuja said that another 3 million girls a year are at risk of undergoing mutilation.
The agencies said that female genital mutilation has damaging effects on the health of women, girls and newborn babies.
“It also violates the rights of women and girls to health, protection and even life, as the procedure sometimes leads to death,” the statement said.
Excessive bleeding and shock are some of the immediate consequences risked by the procedure.
The statement noted that the long-term effects could include chronic pain, infections and trauma: “Recent studies show that women who have undergone genital mutilation have higher risks for Caesarean sections, longer hospital stays and post-partum haemorrhaging. Their newborn babies have higher death rates during and immediately after birth, as well.”
UNICEF pledged to support governments and communities to end the practice.
“We recognize that traditions are often stronger than law, and legal action by itself is not enough,” the statement said. “Change must also come from within. This is why it is critical for us to work closely with communities so that they can bring about sustainable social change.”
A Visit to the Family Self-Mutilation Store
January 18,2008
