Religious leaders' position toward female genital cutting and their perspectives on the relationship between the Islamic religion and this practice.

This study aimed to understand the position of religious leaders toward female genital cutting (FGC) and their perspectives on the relationship between the Islamic religion and FGC. In-depth interviews were conducted with 29 religious leaders in Erbil governorate, Iraqi Kurdistan region from June 2016 to May 2017 using a semi-structured interview guide. Most interviewees supported the continuation of FGC or thought that it should be at least permissible.

Knowledge and perspectives of female genital cutting among the local religious leaders in Erbil governorate, Iraqi Kurdistan region.

Background: Religious leaders are one of the key actors in the issue of female genital cutting (FGC) due to the influential position they have in the community and the frequent association of FGC with the religion. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and perspectives of the local religious leaders in Erbil governorate, Iraqi Kurdistan Region about different aspects of FGC.

Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with a sample of 29 local religious leaders.