
New data has surfaced, painting a grim picture of the prevalence of female genital mutilation (FGM) worldwide. According to figures released by the UN children’s agency, UNICEF, there has been a disturbing 15% increase in the number of women and girls subjected to this harmful practice over the past eight years.
UNICEF’s latest statistics reveal that more than 230 million women and girls are currently living with the consequences of FGM, compared to 200 million reported in 2016. Catherine Russell, the executive director of UNICEF, emphasized the gravity of the situation, highlighting that the majority of FGM cases occur during the formative years of young girls.
“Female genital mutilation harms girls’ bodies, dims their futures, and endangers their lives,” Russell remarked. “We’re witnessing a troubling trend where more girls are subjected to this practice at younger ages, with many undergoing it before reaching their fifth birthday. This further narrows the window for intervention. It’s imperative that we redouble our efforts to eradicate this harmful practice.”
UNICEF warns that the pace of efforts to eliminate FGM must accelerate significantly to meet the UN’s target of eradication by 2030, estimating that progress needs to be 27 times faster than current rates.
Contrary to misconceptions, UNICEF clarified that the rise in FGM cases is not due to a global increase in prevalence but rather a higher number of births occurring in FGM-practicing countries compared to the rest of the world.
Female Genital Mutilation, characterized by the partial or total removal of external female genitalia, is a severe violation of human rights. In 2012, the UN passed a resolution to ban the practice, yet it persists in many parts of the world.
The majority of FGM cases, approximately 60% (144 million), occur in Africa, followed by 80 million in Asia and 6 million in the Middle East. Countries like Somalia, Guinea, Djibouti, Egypt, Sudan, and Mali report the highest prevalence rates.
Despite efforts, many African nations still grapple with the challenges of ending FGM, although there has been a gradual decline in the practice over the past decade.
Claudia Clappa, the lead author of UNICEF’s report on FGM, underscored that while there is growing opposition to the practice, it often lacks corresponding action.
Nimco Ali, CEO of the Five Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for increased funding for grassroots organizations combatting FGM.
UNICEF’s data also highlights a disturbing trend where families opt to subject their daughters to FGM as early as two years old, purportedly to minimize psychological trauma. The agency condemned this practice, emphasizing the necessity of addressing it urgently.
Key Points to Note:
- In Gambia, a bill to repeal the ban on FGM has sparked a national debate on rights, religion, and culture.
- Despite growing calls for its ban, FGM remains legal in Sierra Leone, where recent incidents have resulted in fatalities.
- Kenya criminalized FGM in 2011, leading to a decline in cases, but concerns persist regarding the effectiveness of anti-FGM measures.
As the fight against FGM continues, it is imperative that governments, organizations, and communities worldwide intensify their efforts to protect the rights and well-being of women and girls.
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