CMY3705 Assignment: 1

UNISA Department of Social Work Victimology CMY3705 Module/course: CMY3705 Assignment: 1 Assignment number Due date: Number of pages: 11 including cover page 2 Table of contents 1. Introduction…………………………………………………………3 2. Harmful traditional practices………………………………………4 2.1 Female genital mutilation……………………………..………….4 2.2 Ukuthwala……………………………………………..……………5 2.2.1 The Children's Act 38 of 2005…………………………….7 2.3 Male Cicumcision………………………………………………….7 3. Conclusion……………………………………….………………..10 4. References………………………………………..……………….11 3 1. Introduction Traditional cultural practices is a significant part of the human existence. It reflects the values and beliefs held by members of a community for periods often spanning generations. Every social grouping across the world has specific traditional cultural practices and beliefs they stay true to. Some of which can be beneficial, while others can be extremely harmful. Such as genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriages (Ukuthwala), virginity testing and circumcision of boys under the age of sixteen years old. Harmful traditional practices occur across all sexes, sexual identities and genders. They are not unique to a particular culture or religion Regardless to the harmful nature of these practices that is in violation of national and international human rights laws, such practices still continue to exist, because they are not questioned or challenged, society turns a blind eye. For a long time, Governments and the international community had not expressed sympathy and understanding for women and men who, due to ignorance or unawareness of their rights, endured pain, suffering and even death inflicted on themselves and their children. Allowing these customs to become a norm within their society. These practices are against people’s constitutional rights. People have the right to live free from harm, oppression, discrimination and violence. This includes harmful practices directed towards both men and women.