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Harmful traditional practices

Migrants bring some ancient traditional practices to Finland. Some of these practices are harmful to children and prohibited in Finland and many other countries.

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Female genital mutilation and circumcision

Female genital mutilation violates a child’s human rights and causes health problems. It is punishable in all forms as assault under Finnish law even if a girl is taken abroad for the procedure. This also applies to suturing after childbirth. Female genital mutilation can lead to a long prison sentence. If an authority suspects female genital mutilation, they are obliged to submit a child welfare notification.

Non-therapeutic circumcision of boys is not specifically prohibited by law but if done incorrectly, it can constitute an offence. The procedure can only be carried out by a licensed doctor in accordance with the guidelines.

Honour-based violence

Violence motivated by the notion of family honour exists throughout the world. It is usually a matter of protecting the honour of women and girls, but sometimes boys can also be victims. Honour-based violence can be controlling and restricting someone’s movements or their circle of friends. Violation of these rules may be punished by violence, and forced marriage may also be a threat.

If an authority finds that a child is being abused, the authority is obliged to submit a child welfare notification. Many acts committed in the name of honour are crimes and are reported to the police. Authorities work together with immigrant communities to prevent honour-based violence.

 

 

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