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Circumcision

When it comes to religious traditions such as circumcision, food or clothing, these are regarded as private matters. Swedish law is the same for all people regardless of religion. No acts refers to religion as a motive to be exempted from the general law or to have certain rights because of religious belonging. The special law on circumcision of boys does however mention religious tradition in the text.

Female circumcision is strictly prohibited in Sweden, while male circumcision is accepted by the law but must be performed by a professional doctor with the use of anesthesia. However, the circumcision of boys under two months of age may be performed by persons who have been given special permission by the national Social Authority (Socialstyrelsen) following recommendation by a faith community which has circumcision as a religious tradition (SFS 2001:499). The legal acceptance of circumcision is, however, often questioned, e.g. by medical professionals who argue that it amounts to mistreatment of the child.

D 4 September 2024    APer Pettersson

CNRS Unistra Dres Gsrl

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