Female genital mutilation (FGM) affects over 230 million women and girls worldwide. If urgent action is not taken, 27 million more girls could be subjected to this harmful practice by 2030. Despite progress, many countries still struggle with enforcement. Global leaders call for stronger alliances and policies to eliminate FGM permanently.
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FGM Remains a Global Crisis: How Can We Stop It?
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a severe human rights violation that leaves lifelong physical and emotional scars on millions of women and girls. On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (6 Feb 2025), the UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO have renewed their commitment to eliminate this harmful practice once and for all.
What Is the Scale of the Problem?
According to global data:
- 230 million girls and women have already undergone FGM.
- If no action is taken, 27 million more girls may suffer by 2030.
- Only 7 out of 31 affected countries are on track to end FGM by 2030.
Where Is Progress Happening?
Some countries, like Kenya and Uganda, have successfully reduced FGM rates through community-led initiatives and strong legal action. The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme has provided:
- 7 million girls with prevention and protection services.
- 48 million people who pledged to abandon the practice.
- 220 million individuals educated through mass media campaigns.
The Challenges Still Ahead
Despite progress, setbacks remain. In The Gambia, efforts to repeal the FGM ban threaten years of hard work in protecting girls’ rights. Many countries still lack strict enforcement, and societal pressures continue to push families into forcing their daughters to undergo the procedure.
What Needs to Be Done?
To eliminate FGM, experts call for:
- Stronger laws and enforcement to protect at-risk girls.
- Greater investment in education, healthcare, and social support.
- Community engagement to change traditional mindsets.
- Global accountability to ensure policies are upheld.
Final Call to Action
The time to act is now. Governments, organizations, and individuals must work together to protect girls from this deeply harmful practice. Every girl has the right to live free from pain, fear, and injustice. Ending FGM is not just possible—it is necessary.
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