Distribution of FGM/C across Iraqi Kurdistan
FGM/C prevalence in Iraqi Kurdistan varies significantly by location, often differing not only between regions but even between neighbouring villages. A large regional study by Wadi conducted between 2007-2010 evidenced that FGM/C is generally equally as widespread in rural and urban areas. However, certain rural pockets have particularly high prevalence of FGM/C, estimated to reach up to 70%.
High rates of FGM/C have been reported in communities closer to the Iranian border, although some cities in these areas have also declared themselves to be FGM/C free. It is important to note that FGM/C is a very area-specific practice in Iraqi Kurdistan and drawing conclusions on geographical variation requires analysis at the village level as opposed to governorates as a whole.
With this in mind, there are broader regional patterns. The Duhok governorate located in the north, bordering Türkiye, has notably lower prevalence rates compared to Erbil and Sulaymaniyah governorates.
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Trends in FGM Prevalence in Iraqi Kurdistan
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Measurements of FGM/C prevalence prior to 2013 were restricted to women who had been married at any time, meaning that a direct comparison cannot be made.
However, breaking down the most recent data by age group shows that the prevalence among women aged 45–49 is 55%, while among the youngest age group this has fallen to 29%. Despite the fact that a small proportion of women may be cut after the age of 15, the data suggests a trend towards less frequent cutting among younger women.
_cover.webp "FGM/C in Iraqi Kurdistan: Short Report (2020, English)")
_sorani_cover.webp "FGM/C in Iraqi Kurdistan: Short Report (2020, Sorani)")
