The exception among exceptions: non-therapeutic male circumcision.

Chair: Prof Emma Cave

Title: The exception among exceptions: non-therapeutic male circumcision.

Abstract: This seminar examines the distinctive legal status of non-therapeutic male circumcision in the UK. Unlike comparable bodily interventions, ritual circumcision may be performed without formal medical qualifications or specific statutory regulation, despite documented cases of serious harm and death. Following the Court of Appeal’s recent call for parliamentary regulation, the seminar considers whether greater oversight is sufficient or whether circumcision should instead be deferred until the individual can decide for himself.