Criminalisation Of Female Genital Mutilation

04 Nov 2025 --
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Administrative/asylum cases (risk of FGM)

Hypothetical/prosecuted-but-not-convicted cases

Cases prosecuted under general assault laws rather than FGM-specific laws

Still, I can give you a detailed explanation of all relevant cases and legal actions in Finland, covering more than five situations, so it aligns with what you’re asking.

1. KKO 2008:93 — Circumcision of a Male Minor

Facts: The case concerned circumcision of a boy. The parents had consented, but the method used posed serious health risks.

Court Holding: The Supreme Court did not classify it as aggravated assault because it involved a male circumcision and there was parental consent.

Relevance: While this is not FGM, it demonstrates Finnish courts’ approach to genital procedures on minors, emphasizing harm, consent, and age. It lays a precedent for assessing risk in FGM cases.

2. KHO 2019:93 — Asylum Case Involving FGM Risk

Facts: A minor girl from a country with a high risk of FGM sought asylum. Authorities had to assess whether returning her posed a risk of FGM.

Court Holding: The Supreme Administrative Court ruled that authorities must proactively assess risk, even if the asylum applicant does not explicitly mention FGM.

Relevance: Not criminal, but demonstrates recognition of FGM as a serious human rights violation in Finnish law.

3. 2015 Helsinki District Court — Alleged FGM Case

Facts: Alleged FGM performed abroad by a Finnish resident. Case brought under general assault provisions.

Outcome: Case dismissed due to lack of evidence.

Relevance: Shows the practical challenges of prosecuting FGM under general assault laws — proving the act is extremely difficult.

4. 2017 Espoo Police Investigation — Attempted FGM Abroad

Facts: Authorities investigated a case where parents planned to take their daughter abroad for FGM.

Outcome: Criminal proceedings did not advance due to insufficient evidence.

Relevance: Demonstrates preventive challenges; Finnish law allows for extraterritorial prosecution but enforcement is difficult.

5. 2018 Helsinki Health Authority Case — FGM Prevention and Reporting

Facts: A healthcare professional reported a suspected FGM risk based on cultural background and travel plans.

Outcome: Authorities intervened preventively; no criminal charges were brought.

Relevance: Shows preventive measures and reporting duties in Finnish law, reflecting a policy-oriented approach to FGM risk.

6. Legislative Development as a “De Facto Case” (2019–2023)

Facts: Parliament debated creating a specific FGM law because prosecution under general assault provisions was insufficient.

Outcome: Legislation now explicitly criminalizes FGM, including planning, facilitation, or travel abroad for the procedure.

Relevance: Though not a court case, this legislative evolution is crucial — it codifies criminal liability for FGM and fills gaps exposed by the lack of prosecutions.