A form of self-harm?

Opening the dialogue on 'harmful cultural practices' in southern Ethiopia

Abstract

In this paper, I question whether gender equality can be attained if those trying to uphold human rights do not consider the varied experiences of people who practice so-called 'harmful cultural practices'. I use the example of lip-plates, worn by Mursi girls and women, to show how campaigns to eradicate harmful cultural practices in southern Ethiopia often send contradictory and confusing messages that may do more harm than good.