FGM is a deep-rooted tradition, dating back thousands of years for several communities around the world. It’s the act of removing partially or totally parts of the external female genitalia and has been described as a form of gender-based violence. It’s closely linked to culture rather than religion.   

Africa, particularly Somalia has the highest prevalence rate of 99% and is unchanged for the past three decades despite efforts from NGOs and governmental authorities. With the outbreak of the Somali civil war, Somali migrants left for other countries, fleeing instability, arriving in countries such as Sweden. FGM is illegal in Sweden and there are no known cases of FGM being performed in the country.  

The aim of this study is to explore the change in practices among this group following migration and acculturation.    

This study uses qualitative methods in the form of semi-structured interviews to inquire eight community experts of their perceptions of the changed practices in FGM in Järva, Stockholm, Sweden. The interviews are conducted in person but also through video phone calls.Their observations are transcribed verbatim and analysis using inductive thematic analysis.

The results presented by the participants were Education, Stakeholders involvement, Policy’s and regulations and lack of social pressure. The participants highlight the importance of education, community engagement initiatives, and policy measures to further promote the abandonment of FGM within all populations wanting to abolish harmful traditions.