Constitution (Prohibition of FGM)

Brief Description

Article 15 (2) and (4) of the new Constitution adopted in August 2012 contains provisions specifically prohibiting violence against women and female genital mutilation (circumcision).

Article 15:

(2) Every person has the right to personal security, which shall be safeguarded through the prohibition of illegal detention, all forms of violence, including any form of violence against women, torture, or inhumane treatment.

(4) Circumcision of girls is a cruel and degrading customary practice, and is tantamount to torture.  The circumcision of girls is prohibited.