INTERROGATING THE ACT OF MALE CIRCUMCISION AS AN INFRINGEMENT OF HUMAN RIGHTS

Abstract

Circumcision of the male genital organ has for centuries been a cultural, religious, and medical
practice. It is a procedure that cuts off part of the foreskin from the penis, and when carried out on
minors, without an individual’s informed consent and absent urgent medical necessity, has raised
concerns as constituting a violation of fundamental human rights. This paper interrogates male
circumcision infringement on human rights, focusing on the right to bodily integrity, autonomy and
freedom from inhuman treatment, the best interest of the child, and the role of parental consent. It
seeks a legal analysis of international human rights and local frameworks while addressing
cultural and religious considerations. Using the Doctrinal research methodology, this paper found
that there is more outcry against female circumcision than male circumcision. The paper argues
that non-consensual male circumcision violates key human rights principles and calls for a
balanced approach that respects cultural practices while safeguarding individual rights. The paper
concludes that though religious and cultural freedoms are guaranteed under domestic and
international laws, they do not justify the irreversible alterations on individuals that are nonconsenting and recommends reformed legislative and ethical policies aimed at harmonising legal
frameworks and promoting rights within the standard of universal human rights.