Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the tissue covering the head of the penis. It is a common practice in many parts of the world for religious, cultural, and medical reasons. In Europe, circumcision practices and attitudes vary significantly by country.
Quick Overview
Circumcision is most prevalent in Muslim-majority countries in Southeastern Europe and among Jewish communities. It is relatively rare in predominantly Christian countries. Overall, an estimated 10-20% of men in Europe are circumcised.
Reasons for Circumcision in Europe
The main reasons for circumcision in Europe include:
- Religion – Circumcision is near universal among Jewish and Muslim populations for religious and cultural reasons.
- Medical – Circumcision may be recommended for conditions like phimosis or balanitis. It is also believed to reduce the risk of UTIs and STIs.
- Personal preference – Some men choose circumcision later in life for perceived hygiene or aesthetic reasons.
Circumcision by Country
Here is an overview of circumcision rates in select European countries:
| Country | Estimated Circumcision Rate |
|---|---|
| Albania | 90-100% |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | 60-70% |
| Denmark | 1-5% |
| France | 10-20% |
| Germany | 10-15% |
| Greece | 5-10% |
| Italy | 5-10% |
| Spain | 5-10% |
| Sweden | 5-10% |
| United Kingdom | 15-20% |
As shown, Muslim-majority countries in Southeastern Europe like Albania and Bosnia have very high circumcision rates. Northern and Western European countries traditionally have lower rates, but these have risen in recent decades due to immigration. The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates in Western Europe.
Circumcision Practices
Age at Circumcision
The age at circumcision varies by background:
- Jews – Traditionally performed on the 8th day after birth in a ceremony called a bris.
- Muslims – Often performed between the ages of 0-10 years old.
- Medical – Typically done in infancy but can be done at any age if medically advised.
- Personal preference – Usually done later in childhood, the teenage years, or even adulthood.
Methods
The main methods used are:
- Surgical Circumcision – The foreskin is removed using surgical instruments and stitches. This is the most common technique used in hospitals and clinics.
- Plastibell Circumcision – A plastic ring is placed under the foreskin, which cuts off circulation causing the foreskin to die and fall off within days.
- Gomco Clamp – The foreskin is crushed using a metal clamp and removed.
- Religious Methods – A mohel (Jewish circumciser) removes the foreskin using instruments or sometimes just their fingernails in a swift motion.
Anesthesia, either local or general, is commonly used except for religious circumcisions.
Settings
Circumcisions are typically performed:
- In hospitals – Most common for medical circumcisions
- In clinics – Common for religious/cultural circumcisions
- In religious settings – For Jewish and Muslim religious rituals
- In non-clinical settings – Not recommended but still done in some cases
Circumcision by Religion
Judaism
Circumcision (brit milah) is very important in Judaism and is near universal among Jews in Europe. It symbolizes the covenant between God and Abraham. It is typically performed on the 8th day after birth by a mohel in the presence of family.
While exact statistics are hard to find, circumcision rates are estimated at:
- France – 99%
- Germany – >95%
- United Kingdom – 99%
Some European countries like Sweden have tried to limit religious circumcision, causing tensions with Jewish populations.
Islam
Circumcision (khitan) is also near universal among Muslims for religious reasons. It is seen as a rite of passage and usually performed between birth and puberty.
In Muslim majority countries, circumcision rates are:
- Albania – Over 90%
- Bosnia and Herzegovina – Over 60%
- Kosovo – Over 90%
High Muslim immigration to Europe has increased circumcision rates. Estimates include:
- France – 70-80% among Muslims
- Germany – 98% among Turks
- Netherlands – 50-60% among Moroccans
- Sweden – 75% among Iraqis
- United Kingdom – Over 90% among Pakistanis
Christianity
Circumcision has never been an important ritual in Christianity. Estimates include:
- Denmark – 1-3%
- Finland – 1%
- Norway – 2%
- Sweden – 5-10%
Some circumcision occurs for perceived health benefits. Missionary groups like the United States-based Brothers Brother Foundation have also promoted medical circumcision in Christian African nations to reduce HIV/AIDS risk.
Legality of Circumcision
Infant circumcision is legal in most European countries. A few have restrictions:
- Sweden – Requires medical justification under age 2
- Finland – Restricted under age 18
- Norway – Restricted under age 16
- Germany – Debate over legality led Jewish groups to pass protective legislation
Iceland attempted to ban infant circumcision but withdrew the bill after international backlash.
Circumcision of boys and adolescents is usually permitted with parental consent. Adult circumcision is universally legal and considered a personal choice.
Medical Perspectives
Medical organizations have evolving views on routine infant circumcision:
| Organization | Position |
|---|---|
| British Medical Association | Discourages routine circumcision |
| Royal Dutch Medical Association | Discourages routine circumcision |
| Royal Australasian College of Physicians | Discourages routine circumcision |
| Canadian Pediatric Society | Does not recommend routine circumcision but reasonable if requested |
| American Academy of Pediatrics | Benefits outweigh risks but parents should decide |
| World Health Organization | Recommend circumcision to help reduce HIV in endemic areas |
However, most stop short of outright bans and focus on informed parental consent. There are also regional differences in views within some countries.
Potential Benefits
Some potential medical benefits of circumcision include:
- Decreased risk of urinary tract infections in infants
- Lower risk of sexually transmitted infections like HIV, HPV, syphilis
- Easier genital hygiene
- Lower risk of penile cancer
However, some studies are inconclusive and absolute risk reduction is still low in developed countries like Europe with good access to antibiotics and safe sex education.
Potential Risks
Some potential risks include:
- Pain or complications during and after procedure
- Irritation or infection of the glans
- Increased difficulty with sexual function or satisfaction
- Psychological consequences from undergoing procedure without consent
Serious complications like loss of the penis are extremely rare when performed in a proper clinical setting.
Social and Ethical Concerns
Some European ethical and social organizations have raised concerns over circumcising infants or boys unable to consent, arguing it should be a personal choice. This has sparked debate around religious freedom, parental rights, and preventative health. Positions are highly polarized.
Some organizations in favor of letting males choose include:
- National Organization of Circumcision Information Resource Centers (NOCIRC)
- International Coalition for Genital Integrity
- British Humanist Association
- Swedish Association for Sexuality Education
On the other side, Jewish and Muslim groups see circumcision as core to their identity and limiting it as an attack on religious rights. Medical organizations emphasize its potential benefits.
Public Opinion
A 2020 YouGov survey across 7 European countries found divided public opinion on circumcision:
| Country | Support Circumcision | Oppose Circumcision |
|---|---|---|
| Britain | 55% | 22% |
| Denmark | 24% | 46% |
| Finland | 14% | 57% |
| France | 41% | 25% |
| Germany | 35% | 39% |
| Norway | 20% | 48% |
| Sweden | 19% | 56% |
People in Nordic countries leaned more against circumcision while those in Britain, France and Germany were more divided. Age, gender and religion also influenced views.
For Religious Reasons
Support was higher when circumcision was framed in a religious context:
- Britain – 64% support Jews/Muslims circumcising sons for religious reasons
- France – 61% support
- Germany – 50% support
This reflects a hesitancy to be seen as infringing on religious liberties.
Age Differences
Younger adults tend to be more strongly opposed to circumcision. For example:
- 18-24 in Britain – 39% support circumcision vs. 66% of those over 55
- 18-29 in Germany – 26% support vs. 46% over 60
This may reflect shifting social norms and ethnic demographics.
Conclusion
Circumcision remains a common practice in Europe, but notable differences in circumcision rates and attitudes exist across the continent based on religious and cultural factors. While some see it as an unnecessary procedure or violation of personal autonomy, many groups continue the practice for deeply held religious convictions, leaving the debate at an impasse between advocates on both sides.
Public health officials walk a fine line promoting evidence-based policies while attempting not to stoke social tensions. Ultimately, circumcision in Europe remains controversial yet enduring, reflecting the diversity of values and beliefs in European societies.