MUSLIM leaders in Glasgow have spoken out against female genital mutilation and violence against women.

A new film, to be premiered at Govanhill Baths, features senior Muslim scholars discussing domestic abuse, forced marriage, sexual harassment, honour- based violence and female genital mutilation.

Filmed by Amina, the Muslim Women's Resource Centre, the project forms part of its, You Can Change This campaign.

Ghizala Avan, campaign director at Amina said: "Violence against women is a global issue.

"We aim to bring all communities together to drive violence against women out of our neighbourhoods, communities and society.."

Imam Habib Rauf, of Glasgow Central Mosque, took part in the project along with Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ahmed, from the Islamic Studies Trust, and Imam Hafiz Muhammad, Edinburgh's Iqra Academy, .

In the film they highlight the message that Islam forbids all violence against women.

This new film, Imams for Change: Challenging Violence against Women, is the third film in a series.

Smina Akhtar, director of Amina MWRC added: "Violence against women happens in all communities.

"We felt it was important to have a strong message coming from our religious leaders, particularly because we know that there are some men who pervert our culture to justify their wrong-doing."

Chief Inspector Graham Goulden of Police Scotland's Violence Reduction Unit, said: "Violence against women is a top priority.

"Whilst a robust response to these issues is essential, policing alone will not stop the problem. The answer lies within our communities."