A survey in Mali a few years ago showed that a majority of people are convinced that the Islamic religion demands female genital cutting. Although neither Islam nor Christianity has stipulated an obligation to circumcise women, 70% of the women and 68% of the men surveyed stated that girls should be circumcised for religious reasons. (More on the background to female circumcision here.)
However, there are numerous religious authorities who contradict this belief and, like the UN, describe female genital cutting as a human rights violation. In this project, religious opinion leaders campaign for an end to violence against women, arguing both on the basis of human rights and the scriptures of their respective religions.
In a joint project with IAMANEH Switzerland, the RIPOD network has set itself the goal of promoting women's rights in Mali and raising awareness of how important women are for the stability of families - and the role they play in society as a whole.
RIPOD stands for "Réseau Islam Population et Développement", or "Islamic Network for Population and Development". In this project, Islamic and Christian leaders are working together with political and traditional decision-makers in 20 villages in the Ségou and Barouéli regions to implement the project.
With a documentary film, two specially produced manuals and numerous activities for religious and state officials, schoolchildren and the general population, the project team is raising awareness of respect for women's rights and thus working towards improvements. It makes specific reference to religious scriptures. As part of the project, religious and other officials are encouraged and empowered to recognise female genital mutilation as a serious human rights violation and to stand up for women's rights.
The aim is for Islamic dignitaries to sign a fatwa at the end of the three-year project phase, which aims to respect women's rights. A fatwa is a kind of legal opinion that provides answers to religious questions.
The fact that the initiative is supported by religious networks is of great importance in the local context. 95% of the population in Mali is Muslim, while around 4% belong to Christian denominations. In both religions, texts are often interpreted in such a way that they suggest a low status for women. Religious leaders have great influence and can thus change the way violence against women is dealt with.
Partner organisation:
RIPOD: Reseau Islam Population et Developpement, founded in 2005
Project phase: 1.1.2023 to 31.12.2025
