Circumcision deaths

UK Considers Circumcision as Possible Child Abuse in Draft CPS Document

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is considering classifying circumcision as a potential form of child abuse in new guidance for prosecutors. This follows concerns from judges and coroners regarding deaths and serious harms resulting from the procedure. The draft document has sparked alarm among religious groups, particularly Jewish and Muslim leaders, who defend the cultural importance of circumcision. Despite the lack of a specific criminal offense for male circumcision, the guidance highlights that the practice, if performed incorrectly, could be a form of child abuse or an offense against the person.

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South Africa: 41 Deaths Linked to Circumcision Rituals

Authorities have announced at least 41 deaths of young men in South Africa due to circumcision procedures during traditional initiation ceremonies in November and December. These initiations, a rite of passage into manhood, often involve unregistered schools where negligence and failure to adhere to safety standards are prevalent. Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa attributed the fatalities to issues within initiation schools, along with the lack of monitoring by the parents. The Eastern Cape province has seen the highest number of deaths and arrests have been made in connection to illegal initiation schools.

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