Circumcision Guidance: CPS Drops ‘Child Abuse’ Label, Focuses on Harmful Practices

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in England and Wales has issued updated guidance classifying circumcision as a potentially harmful practice, though it has stopped short of categorizing it as a form of child abuse. The shift follows objections from Jewish and Muslim groups to earlier proposals that would have included circumcision alongside practices like dowry abuse, witchcraft, and female genital mutilation in guidance on honour-based abuse. The updated guidance, published this week, instead addresses circumcision within broader guidance on offences against the person.

The CPS guidance now states that circumcision can “cross the line into a harmful practice” in specific circumstances – namely, when performed by individuals falsely claiming qualifications or in non-sterile conditions. Prosecutors are advised to consider potential offences under the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 or the Offences against the Person Act 1861, and to refer to separate guidance on child abuse. This represents a nuanced approach, acknowledging the cultural and religious significance of circumcision while recognizing the potential for harm when performed improperly.

A History of Concern: Deaths and Unregulated Practice

The move towards greater scrutiny of circumcision practices follows a series of concerning cases. Since 2001, circumcision has been a contributing factor in the deaths of seven boys in England and Wales, including three infants who died from bleeding, according to the Office for National Statistics. More recently, a coroner issued warnings in December 2023 regarding insufficient regulation of who can perform circumcisions, following the death of six-month-old Mohamed Abdisamad from a streptococcus infection after the procedure.

These cases have highlighted a lack of consistent standards and oversight. In 2025, Mohammed Siddiqui, a former doctor, was jailed for causing “gratuitous pain and suffering” during circumcisions performed between 2014 and 2019. Similarly, Mohammed Alazawi was convicted of six counts of wounding with intent after falsely claiming to be a doctor and performing circumcisions. These incidents underscore the risks associated with unqualified practitioners and the need for improved safeguards.

Religious Communities Respond to the Guidance

The initial proposals to classify circumcision as a potential form of child abuse sparked significant alarm within Jewish and Muslim communities. Rabbi Dr Jonathan Romain, convener of Reform Beit Din, Progressive Judaism’s religious court, welcomed the revised wording, stating that the late Queen Elizabeth II was not accused of child abuse when her sons were circumcised. He emphasized that circumcision can be safe and meaningful when performed by qualified practitioners, but rogue operators can endanger children and bring the practice into disrepute. As reported in the Jewish Chronicle, Romain believes the updated guidance strikes a more appropriate balance.

Jonathan Arkush, co-chair of Milah UK, an organization dedicated to protecting the right to religious circumcision, also praised the updated guidance, stating it upheld the longstanding legal status of the practice. He emphasized that male circumcision, as practiced within the Jewish community, is distinct from honour-based abuse and that the CPS had rightly recognized this distinction.

Defining Harm: What the Guidance Means in Practice

The CPS guidance focuses on the circumstances surrounding the procedure, rather than the practice of circumcision itself. It clarifies that the key concern lies with instances where the procedure is performed improperly or unsafely. This includes cases involving unqualified individuals, non-sterile conditions, or the infliction of unnecessary pain. The guidance does not seek to outlaw circumcision, but rather to ensure that it is carried out responsibly and with appropriate safeguards.

Alejandro Sanchez, the human rights lead at the National Secular Society, argued that the guidance is a “positive step,” given the harm caused by individuals like Siddiqui and Alazawi. However, he also cautioned that the guidance is too vague and lacks clear definitions regarding consent, safeguarding, and best interests. This ambiguity, he suggests, could leave families without adequate protection.

The Role of Regulation and Oversight

The recent cases and the CPS guidance highlight the need for greater regulation and oversight of circumcision practices. Currently, there is no centralized system for accrediting practitioners or ensuring adherence to infection control standards. The coroner’s report following the death of Mohamed Abdisamad specifically called for action to address this gap. The updated CPS guidance reflects a growing recognition of the potential risks associated with unregulated practice.

The Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS trust reported admitting 29 babies between 2022 and 2024 with serious complications from circumcision, including sepsis and haemorrhage, as reported by The Guardian. These figures further underscore the need for improved standards and monitoring.

What Happens Next: Guidance Review and Potential Changes

The CPS has stated that it recognizes the social, cultural, and religious significance of circumcision. The agency will continue to monitor cases and review the guidance as needed. It is likely that further clarification will be provided on issues such as consent and safeguarding. The ongoing debate surrounding circumcision is expected to continue, with calls for greater regulation and improved protection for children. The CPS spokesperson confirmed that the agency will assess cases on an individual basis, considering the specific circumstances and relevant legal factors.