The Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) stands in solidarity with worldwide efforts aimed at eliminating FGM in commemoration of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a form of gender-based violence that has plagued women and girls for centuries. It is internationally denounced as a breach of the fundamental human rights of girls and women. The United Nations reports that over 200 million girls and women currently alive have been subjected to FGM.1 Alarmingly, in the year 2024 alone, approximately 4.4 million girls—or more than 12,000 daily—are at imminent risk of undergoing FGM across the globe.2
Proponents of FGM often defend the practice by citing cultural traditions, alleging that it curtails female sexuality and preserves virginity before marriage. Others mistakenly believe that FGM offers hygienic benefits, reduces promiscuity, modifies socio-sexual behaviour, promotes fertility, and even augments marriage prospects.
However, research and studies unequivocally demonstrate that FGM offers no health advantages to girls or women. On the contrary, those subjected to FGM experience immediate complications such as intense pain, shock, excessive bleeding, infection, and difficulties urinating. The long-term repercussions are equally dire, adversely affecting their sexual, reproductive, and mental health. These findings underscore the fact that FGM is a cultural practice deeply rooted in gender inequality, as highlighted by the United Nations.
The persistence of FGM underscores the critical need for comprehensive education and community engagement to dismantle myths surrounding the practice and promote gender equality. Empowering girls and women through education, providing support to communities in transitioning away from FGM, and enforcing legal frameworks that protect the rights of girls and women are vital steps towards eradicating FGM.
As we observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, CFHI echoes the call for a united action by the government, organisations, stakeholders, and individuals in the fight against FGM. It is imperative to listen to and amplify the voices of girls and women affected by FGM, to ensure their rights are protected, and to work tirelessly towards a future where every girl can grow up free from the threat of gender-based violence.
Her voice. Her future. Let’s End FGM Today.
Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.
.1. United Nations_Female Genital Mutilation Day Observance
.2. UNFPA_International Day of Zero Tolerance Female Genital Mutilation