SOMMARIO: 1. Le pratiche di manipolazioni degli organi genitali femminili – 2. L’art. 583 bis c.p. nella prassi applicativa – 3. La lotta alle mutilazioni e/o lesioni degli organi genitali femminili: strumenti adeguati o perfettibili? – 4. La circoncisione rituale maschile nell’ordinamento italiano – 5. Il differente trattamento giuridico della circoncisione maschile e femminile - 6. La circoncisione rituale maschile tra modalità di esecuzione e aspetti sanitari - 7. Funzione genitoriale, scelte educative e prassi circoncisoria maschile - 8. Conclusioni.

Marks on the body and wounds in the soul. The manipulation of the children's genital organs and violated rights

ABSTRACT : Females’ genital mutilation (FGM) comprises any alteration of the external female genitalia , for non-medical reasons. The practice has negative effects on the health and is a violation of human rights of girls and women. In Italy, according to the art. 583 bis Penal Code, any form of FGM is forbidden, including clitoridectomy, excision, infibulation and any other practice causing similar effects, or causing physical or mental disease. Conversely, male ritual circumcision is allowed. According to the author of this paper, genital manipulation practices on both sexes should be explicitly fought and they should be replaced with symbolic actions, in order to protect the minor’s body and soul.