Solutions for Maternal Health and Gender Inequality
Tools used for female circumcision.
Female Genital Mutilation and Gender Inequality are equally daunting issues in Sudan. As the country has been at war for over a decade, the traditional structure of the family is challenged, including income and roles. FGM is one of the longstanding traditions that many are holding on to.
Problem & Solution 1Problem: Female Genital Mutilation
Source for specific information in Sudan: Sudan Tribune Why this is a problem: The practice of female circumcision, though known to be dangerous and even fatal, continues to be a norm in cultures such as Sudan. It is seen as a more desirable trait for a bride to have, and even raises her price or dowry. This is an important issue for Sudanese people, as many of them are in grave poverty- so money is everything. Interviews with women who have received this procedure reveal that the occasion was traumatizing, both physically and mentally. They are afraid for the time that they are wed and do have to give birth, as it becomes an even more dangerous and excruciating experience. Solution: 1. As this is a cultural practice, it is important to respect the rights and views of the Sudanese, and others. If this is a practice that they strongly wish to continue, I propose that a greater number of health centers are placed across the nation. These centers should be funded by the government, as the Sudanese have committed to accomplishing the Millenium Development Goals. These health centers should be staffed with trained medical practitioners, whether from Sudan, or volunteers from other nations around the world. In this instance, I also propose that women's health education be widespread throughout the regions. This information should not be exclusively dealt to women, but to their potential male suitors as well. Fathers, husbands, sons- they should all know and understand the great risks associated with making their women do this. There are many Islamic people who translate the bible to say that females should be circumcised as well- while there are numerous other Islamics, Christians, and Jewish persons who do not believe this to be the translation. Greater education and understanding will aid in better decision making and widespread health for the women (and consequently, the children), of Sudan. 2. If there is not a safe way to perform female circumcision and combat its side-effects in later life, it should be done away with altogether. In this instance, again, education and understanding need to be more widespread and well-known throughout the nation, especially in the small villages. For those who have already undergone the ritual, there needs to be special medical care and attention taken to ensure their survival, health, livelihood, and protection through future occasions such as childbirth. This, again, would require the building of clean, well-maintained, and fully-staffed medical facilities within reach to even the most rural parts of the Sudanese country. |
Problem and Solution 2Problem: Gender Inequality and a lack of education and opportunities for women.
Source for specific information in Sudan: International Rescue Committee Why this is a problem: As mentioned, the war in Sudan has continued for nearly 15 years and has displaced millions of people from their homes. With such an unstable way of life, men and women do not serve in their traditional home and economic roles. Without education, both men and women resort to theft and petty crimes. For women, this is even more dangerous, as women are not always viewed equally in the government. In order to be viewed as a desirable wife, many women must submit to FGM as a means to up their worth/ price. They cannot support themselves. Solution: 1. As a part of education expansion, educational centers should be built so there are spaces where women in the community can meet. Establish programs and support groups that empower women, teach them general skills, trade skills, basic education, and general health. These classes and programs can be put on by means of volunteers or through government appointment. The overall outcome of a program like this should enable women to support themselves and be a voice in their government, for a better life. As women in Sudan do have voting rights and do exercise them, greater education and knowledge will help them to make better decisions, as communities, that will help them to strengthen and develop themselves. 2. Women should be encouraged to be a voice in their community. Various sources say that the seats held by women in the Sudanese government are as low as 17%. To help women's voices be heard, there should be an equal opportunity, or even a requirement for minimum seats that need to be held by women in a community platform. This will ensure that women's voices and opinions are equally present when important decisions and legislature affecting them are made. |