As the world marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), renewed calls are being made to end the harmful practice that continues to threaten the rights, health, and dignity of millions of girls and women globally.
FGM is widely recognized as a violation of human rights, with no medical justification. It causes severe and lifelong physical, psychological, and emotional harm to survivors, while reinforcing gender inequality and violence against women and girls.
Speaking on the significance of the day, Mrs Eugenia Abdallah emphasized the need for collective action to eradicate the practice. She noted that ending FGM requires sustained efforts through education, community engagement, and the empowerment of girls to live free from violence and harmful traditions.
“This day serves as a call to action for governments, organizations, communities, and individuals to speak out against FGM, support survivors, and challenge the social norms that allow the practice to persist,” Mrs Abdallah said.
She added that protecting future generations depends on amplifying survivor voices, strengthening legal and social protections, and ensuring that every girl has control over her own body and future.
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM is observed annually on February 6, uniting global efforts to accelerate the elimination of the practice and promote the rights and well-being of women and girls worldwide.
