The human rights implications of virginity testing in South Africa

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Date

2016

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Abstract

This article examines the historical context of virginity testing in Southern Africa with a focus on South Africa. It then examines the arguments often adduced in justifying the introduction of this practice. The two major arguments to support the reintroduction of virginity testing, namely, that it helps in reducing the spread of HIV and in preserving societal moral values are critically examined. Thereafter, the article discusses how the ever contentious debate between universalists and relativists applies to virginity testing. The last part of the article then considers the human rights implications of virginity testing.

Description

Keywords

Virginity testing, South Africa, Human rights, Universalists and relativists

Citation

Durojaye, E. (2016). The human rights implications of virginity testing in South Africa. International Journal of Discrimination and the Law, 16(4): 228–246.