Transnational strategies to promote female circumcision practice: voices from ghanaian families with relatives living in Europe and North America.

Abstract

Background: The results from qualitative studies have revealed that some African migrants subject their young girls to female genital cutting (FGC) before or after migrating to high-income countries, such as the USA and the UK. This raises important questions as to why some African migrants continue to adhere to FGC after migration, given that the practice is socially rejected in destination countries and, in some cases, already criminalised in countries of origin. Little has been documented on the motivational factors for African migrants to continue promoting the practices even after migrating to Europe and North America. Consequently, we investigated the strategies used by Ghanaian families in motivating commitment to FGC norms and practices among their relatives in Europe and North America.

Methods: Using a narrative qualitative research approach, we interviewed 13 family members in rural Ghana who strongly supported FGC and have family members who have migrated to Europe and North America. The interviews were analysed in NVivo using the narrative thematic analysis strategy.

Findings: The interviews revealed both targeted and non-deliberate strategies, such as pressure from family members, building confidant relationships, and encouraging participation in African community associations. Family members became confidants and a source of connection for their relatives who felt isolated or experienced racism. However, they capitalised on the bonds and trusting relationships to influence their relatives to support FGC through daily conversations.

Conclusion: The findings give important insights into how norms are promoted across borders, highlighting the need to strengthen existing transnational collaborative efforts to address FGC, including cross-border legislation.