Circumcision & religious freedom

Circumcision is back in the news after a German court ruled the practice amounts to bodily harm – even if parents consent.

The ruling puts a child’s right to ensure the protection of their body ahead of religious freedom – and the rights of their parents.

Not surprisingly, there’s backlash. Jewish and Muslim leaders in Germany have expressed concern, prompting Germany’s foreign minister to reassure faith groups that Germany does protect religious traditions.

To weigh in on the debate, we’re joined at Queen’s Park by Grant Wilson from the Children’s Rights Council, and Rabbi Baruch Frydman-Kohl of Toronto’s Beth Tzedec congregation.