The Law and FGM/C: Iran

There is no clear data to indicate the prevalence of FGM/C in Iran. Studies over the past decade have found prevalence rates ranging from 60% in the southern province of Hormozgan, to 21% in West Azerbaijan, 18% in Kermanshah, and 16% in Kurdistan. From these studies, prevalence appears to be concentrated in the northwest, in the region sometimes referred to as Eastern Kurdistan. However, further studies are needed to map prevalence within the country.

The majority of Iran’s population, around 61%, are ethnically Persian, and 98% of the population identifies as Muslim. 89% of Muslims in Iran are Shi’a and about 10% are Sunni. Kurdish people make up roughly 10% and are predominantly Sunni. In Iran, FGM/C is believed to be a Sunni practice, engaged in by the Sunni population. As a result, the practice is largely absent from discussions with national authorities as it is perceived to be practiced among a minority population.

There is no specific law relating to criminalisation of those who perform FGM/C. However, there are some general laws which could apply, such as the Islamic Penal Code (2016), the Law on the Protection of Children and Adolescents (2020), and the Law of Women’s Rights and Responsibilities (2011).