Prosecutors in Russia's southern republic of Dagestan have launched an investigation into reports of female genital mutilation (FGM) taking place in the region, the state-run TASS news agency reported Friday.
The investigation is taking place on the orders of Russia's General Prosecutor's Office, said spokesperson for the Dagestan Prosecutor's Office, Tatyana Golubova.
A report on the practice of FGM in the Russian republic of Dagestan was published in August by the Russian Justice Initiative human rights foundation. The report found that the practice was taking place predominantly in five mountainous areas of the republic, where the operation is normally performed on girls under the age of three.
A new bill, submitted to Russia's State Duma by United Russia deputy Maria Maksakova-Igenbergs, has set forth a prison sentence of up to 10 years for those found carrying out FGM on children.
FGM is an internationally-recognized crime. As well as being at a higher risk of maternal mortality, women who have undergone FGM often report difficulty urinating and passing menstrual flow, fertility problems, chronic pain, and psychological trauma.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
