6 February: International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
Female genital mutilation (FGM) refers to all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is internationally recognized as a grave violation of the human rights, health, and bodily integrity of women and girls.
Women and girls who undergo FGM often experience both immediate and long-term complications, such as severe pain, shock, excessive bleeding, infections, and difficulty with urination. The consequences can also include complications during childbirth, psychological trauma, and an increased risk of newborn deaths.
Although FGM is most prevalent in about 30 countries across Africa and the Middle East, it remains a global concern. The practice continues within some immigrant communities in Western Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand, highlighting the urgent need for worldwide action to eliminate it.
Impact of COVID-19 on Efforts to End Female Genital Mutilation
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 significantly disrupted global efforts to eliminate harmful practices like FGM. Lockdowns, restrictions, and the diversion of resources led to a rise in the number of girls at risk. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), pandemic-related disruptions could put an additional two million girls at risk of undergoing FGM by 2030.
In response, the United Nations—through the joint UNFPA-UNICEF program—has adapted its strategies to integrate FGM prevention and response into humanitarian and post-crisis settings. These efforts aim to protect vulnerable populations and sustain progress towards ending FGM, even in the face of global health emergencies.
Strategies for Eliminating Female Genital Mutilation
Ending FGM requires coordinated, sustained action across entire communities. Effective initiatives are grounded in human rights, gender equality, and comprehensive sexual education, while addressing the specific needs and experiences of those affected by FGM.
Empowering communities through education and advocacy is key to challenging the social norms that perpetuate the practice. Strong legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms are also essential to deter practitioners and protect girls at risk. Additionally, providing support services for survivors is vital for their healing and recovery.
— UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Understanding Female Genital Mutilation: Types and Prevalence
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies FGM into four major types:
- Type I (Clitoridectomy): Partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or the prepuce.
- Type II (Excision): Partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora, with or without removal of the labia majora.
- Type III (Infibulation): Narrowing of the vaginal opening by creating a covering seal, formed by cutting and repositioning the labia minora or labia majora, with or without removal of the clitoris.
- Type IV: All other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, such as pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, and cauterization.
FGM is deeply rooted in cultural, religious, and social traditions within families and communities. It is often seen as a rite of passage or a prerequisite for marriage, which can complicate efforts to eliminate the practice. Education and awareness campaigns targeting community leaders, parents, and youth are essential to changing attitudes and behaviors.
Health Consequences of Female Genital Mutilation
The health risks associated with FGM are extensive and can be life-threatening. Immediate complications include severe pain, hemorrhage, infection, shock, and— in extreme cases—death. Long-term health issues may include:
- Chronic urinary and genital infections
- Increased risk of childbirth complications and newborn deaths
- Infertility
- Psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Painful sexual intercourse and reduced sexual satisfaction
Medical professionals worldwide strongly oppose FGM, emphasizing that it offers no health benefits and causes lasting harm. Survivors require comprehensive medical and psychological care to address their needs effectively.
Global Efforts and Legal Frameworks Against FGM
International organizations, governments, and civil society have intensified efforts to end FGM through legislation, advocacy, and community engagement. Many countries have enacted laws criminalizing FGM, with penalties for practitioners and those who facilitate the procedure.
However, legal measures alone are not enough. Education and community-led initiatives are crucial for lasting change. Partnerships among governments, NGOs, and local leaders help design culturally sensitive programs that respect traditions while upholding health and human rights.
To learn more about global initiatives and ways to get involved, visit the World Health Organization’s fact sheet on Female Genital Mutilation.
The Role of Education and Advocacy
Education is a powerful tool for ending FGM. Awareness campaigns targeting young people empower them to reject harmful practices and advocate for gender equality. Schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations are vital in sharing accurate information about the risks of FGM and the rights of girls and women.
Advocacy efforts also amplify the voices of survivors and activists who work tirelessly to change societal norms. Supporting these leaders helps build momentum toward a world free from female genital mutilation.
How You Can Help End Female Genital Mutilation
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about FGM, its impacts, and the cultural contexts in which it occurs. Share this knowledge within your networks.
- Support Survivor Services: Contribute to organizations that provide medical, psychological, and legal support to survivors.
- Advocate for Legal Protection: Encourage policymakers to enforce laws against FGM and allocate resources for prevention and support programs.
- Promote Gender Equality: Support initiatives that empower girls and women through education and economic opportunities.
- Engage with Communities: Participate in community dialogues to challenge harmful norms and promote the abandonment of FGM.
Every action counts in the fight against female genital mutilation. By standing together, we can help ensure a safer, healthier future for millions of girls and women worldwide.
Visual Campaigns and Raising Awareness
