Today, , marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a day to reaffirm global commitments to end this harmful practice. Despite decades of effort, an estimated 4.5 million girls – many under the age of five – remain at risk of undergoing FGM in alone, according to a joint statement released by leading UN agencies.
FGM encompasses procedures that intentionally alter or injure female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It’s a deeply entrenched cultural practice in some communities, often rooted in beliefs about social norms, hygiene, and the preservation of virginity. However, it is unequivocally recognized as a violation of human rights, with severe consequences for the physical and mental health of those subjected to it.
Lifelong Consequences and Economic Burden
The repercussions of FGM are far-reaching and can last a lifetime. The practice compromises girls’ and women’s health, leading to immediate risks such as severe pain, hemorrhage, infection, and psychological trauma. Long-term complications include chronic pain, difficulties with menstruation and childbirth, increased risk of obstetric fistula, and sexual dysfunction. The financial burden associated with treating these complications is substantial, estimated at approximately US$1.4 billion annually.
Progress and Accelerating Momentum
While the scale of the problem remains significant, progress is being made. Over the past three decades, interventions aimed at eliminating FGM have begun to yield results. Currently, nearly two-thirds of the population in countries where FGM is prevalent express support for its elimination. Notably, half of all gains in reducing the prevalence of FGM since have been achieved in the last decade, decreasing the proportion of girls subjected to the practice from one in two to one in three.
This acceleration in progress is encouraging, but sustaining and building upon this momentum is crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal target of ending FGM by . The UN agencies emphasize that we “know what works,” highlighting the effectiveness of strategies such as health education, engagement with religious and community leaders, involvement of parents and health workers, and the utilization of both traditional and social media to disseminate prevention messages.
The Importance of Community-Led Approaches and Investment
Effective strategies extend beyond awareness campaigns. Investing in community-led movements, including grassroots and youth networks, is paramount. Strengthening education through both formal schooling and community-based programs is also essential. Amplifying prevention messages through trusted opinion leaders, particularly healthcare workers, can further reinforce positive change.
Crucially, support for survivors is a vital component of any comprehensive strategy. Access to comprehensive, context-tailored healthcare, psychosocial support, and legal assistance is essential for those who have undergone FGM. The UN agencies point out that every dollar invested in ending FGM yields a tenfold return, with an investment of US$2.8 billion potentially preventing 20 million cases and generating US$28 billion in investment returns.
Threats to Progress and the Need for Sustained Funding
Despite the positive trends, recent developments pose a threat to the progress made. As the world approaches , gains achieved over decades are at risk due to waning global investment and support. Funding cuts and declining international investment in health, education, and child protection programs are already constraining efforts to prevent FGM and support survivors.
a growing pushback against efforts to end FGM, coupled with dangerous arguments that the practice is acceptable when performed by doctors or healthcare workers, presents additional hurdles. The UN agencies warn that without adequate and predictable financing, community outreach programs may be scaled back, frontline services weakened, and progress reversed, placing millions more girls at risk.
The joint statement underscores the urgent need for continued commitment and collaboration among local and global public and private partners, including survivors, to finally end FGM once and for all. The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation serves as a critical reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the health, rights, and futures of girls and women worldwide.
