The ethics of genital interventions: how to protect the autonomy and bodily integrity of children

My research project examines genital surgery on non-consenting minors: intersex surgery, male circumcision and female genital mutilation (FGM).

I will investigate the legal and moral distinction made by Western societies that denounces FGM as mutilation, while legitimising the other two. I will analyse how these practices are performed in the name of social norms of sex and gender.

Following a conceptual study, an analysis of medical and legal documents, and semi-structured interviews with patients and their families, and activists, the research will develop an ethical protection framework based on sexual and gender equality and consent, combating an objectifying view of the body.