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Female Genital Mutilation: A Violation of Rights and Health
On 20 December 2012, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/67/146, urging states, the United Nations system, civil society, and all stakeholders to continue observing 6 February as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This day serves as a platform to amplify awareness and mobilize action to eliminate FGM.
Further strengthening this commitment, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/69/150 in December 2014, titled “Intensifying Global Efforts for the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation.” This resolution called on Member States to develop and implement comprehensive strategies to prevent FGM, including training medical personnel, social workers, and community and religious leaders to provide competent care and support to women and girls at risk or affected by FGM. It also emphasized the need to prioritize the elimination of FGM within global development frameworks.
At PMNCH, eliminating FGM is not just a priority but a responsibility. We recognize that FGM is a grave violation of human rights, a severe health risk, and a harmful practice rooted in inequality. It is firmly on PMNCH's agenda to support global efforts to end this practice and ensure it is fully eradicated.
What is FGM?
FGM refers to procedures involving the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injuries to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. These procedures are classified into four major types:
- Clitoridectomy: Partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or the prepuce.
- Excision: Removal of the clitoris and labia minora, with or without the labia majora.
- Infibulation: Narrowing of the vaginal opening by repositioning the labia, with or without clitoral removal.
- Other Harmful Procedures: Pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, or cauterizing the genital area.
No Health Benefits, Only Harm
FGM has no medical benefits and causes irreparable harm. It damages healthy tissue, interferes with natural bodily functions, and poses immediate risks such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, infections, and even death. Long-term consequences include chronic infections, infertility, childbirth complications, psychological trauma, and repeated surgeries. Despite these harms, FGM is still performed, and in some countries, it is increasingly carried out by medical professionals, further legitimizing the practice and undermining efforts to eradicate it.
Who is at Risk?
FGM is mostly performed on girls between infancy and age 15, though adult women are also at risk. Annually, over three million girls in Africa are at risk of FGM, with an estimated 140 million women and girls worldwide living with its consequences. The practice remains widespread in parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and among migrant populations in other regions.
The Root Causes of FGM
FGM is deeply rooted in cultural, social, and religious norms. It is often seen as a rite of passage, a prerequisite for marriage, or a way to control female sexuality. In some communities, it is associated with ideals of cleanliness, modesty, and femininity. While no religious texts mandate FGM, misconceptions about its religious significance persist, perpetuated by some religious and community leaders.
Social pressure, cultural traditions, and local power dynamics contribute to the continuation of FGM. In some cases, migration and interaction with FGM-practicing communities have led to its adoption by new groups.
PMNCH’s Call to Action
FGM is a practice that violates the fundamental rights of girls and women. It is a form of gender-based violence and a barrier to achieving gender equality and health for all. At PMNCH, we stand firm in our commitment to ending FGM globally. We align with the UN’s call to intensify efforts and partner with governments, civil society, and communities to ensure that no girl or woman is subjected to this harmful practice.
PMNCH will continue to fight relentlessly, alongside our partners, until FGM is fully eradicated. Together, we can create a future where every girl and woman can live free from violence and harm.