Ammon – The Republic of Madagascar passed a controversial law that imposes the penalty of surgical castration on perpetrators of crimes of rape of children under the age of ten.
Chemical castration for rapists of minors over ten years of age is a temporary procedure, unlike permanent surgical castration, as its effect lasts for only about 3 or 5 years, and medications are used that reduce sexual desire.
Amnesty International opposed the Madagascar state’s new decision, describing it as “humiliating, cruel and inhumane,” stressing that it will not contribute to solving the problem of child rape in the country.
“The measure does not comply with the constitutional provisions against torture and ill-treatment, as well as with regional and international standards related to human rights” (International Justice Organization).
The island of Madagascar is located in the Indian Ocean. Madagascar used to punish perpetrators of rape with 5 years in prison, but in recent years it has witnessed a significant increase in rape incidents, as about 600 cases of rape of minors were recorded last year alone, which prompted officials to defend the new law in Facing criticism.
Justice Minister Landi Mbulatiana stressed that “Madagascar is a sovereign state and has every right to amend its laws” to achieve the public good.
She added, “In the face of the increasing cases of rape, we had to take action” in order to “reduce the phenomenon,” explaining that 600 cases of rape of minors were recorded last year. The minister continued, saying, “Previously, the maximum penalty was five years” in prison, and we have “introduced an additional penalty.” It is castration.”
Agencies
