31 July 2013, 16:20
In Georgia, feminists hold a rally demanding to close "Virginity Institute"
The action "Let's close the Virginity Institute!" was held in Tbilisi in the evening on July 30, where women-protesters expressed their indignation at the actions of employees of the National Bureau of Forensic Examination, who, according to the protesters, issue "virginity certificates" to women. The Bureau denies the practice. Psychologist Georgy Nijaradze believes that women's indignation with the "Virginity Institute" is caused by the growth of their self-identity.
The protest action held at the above National Bureau was organized by the "independent group of feminists" and brought together about 50 people, who spoke negatively about the activities of the Bureau, treating it as "a great shame for Georgia," as the government, in their opinion, should promote the protection of human rights.
Tamara Tsopurashvili, one of the protesters said that no woman would voluntarily undergo this humiliating procedure. Tamara Pataraya, another participant of the action, believes that such actions of the Bureau violate the constitutional provision of equality.
The information that annually the Bureau examines the virginity of up to 300 women, mostly demanded by relatives of their future husbands, was disseminated a week ago by the Georgian TV Company "Imedi".
The National Bureau of Forensic Examination refutes the information about issuance of "virginity certificates".
Author: Inna Kukudzhanova Source: CK correspondent
