International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

Description

Raising Awareness Against FGM

The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a global awareness day observed on February 6th every year. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the harmful practice of FGM, which involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. FGM is a violation of human rights, causing severe physical and emotional harm to millions of girls and women worldwide.

A Global Problem

FGM is practiced in many countries, particularly in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 200 million girls and women have undergone FGM, with 3 million girls at risk of undergoing the procedure every year. FGM is often performed on young girls, usually between infancy and age 15, and can lead to serious health complications, including infection, infertility, and even death.

Eliminating FGM

The International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM aims to promote the elimination of this harmful practice. Governments, international organizations, and civil society groups are working together to raise awareness, provide support to survivors, and advocate for laws and policies that protect girls and women from FGM. The day is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to ending FGM and promoting gender equality, human rights, and dignity for all.

Key Facts

  • FGM is a violation of human rights and a form of gender-based violence.
  • FGM has no health benefits and can cause severe physical and emotional harm.
  • FGM is practiced in over 30 countries, with the highest prevalence in Somalia, Guinea, and Djibouti.
  • The International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM was first observed in 2003, following a resolution by the United Nations General Assembly.

Origin

History of FGM

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) has its roots in ancient cultures, dating back over 2,000 years. The practice was initially performed in ancient Egypt, where it was believed to preserve chastity and modesty. FGM was also practiced in other ancient cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, and Africans.

Spread of FGM

FGM was introduced to Africa by Arab traders and spread rapidly throughout the continent. The practice was often performed as a rite of passage, marking a girl's transition from childhood to womanhood. FGM was also seen as a way to ensure a girl's virginity and marriageability.

Modern-Day FGM

Today, FGM is recognized as a violation of human rights and a form of gender-based violence. The practice is illegal in many countries, and efforts are being made to eradicate it. However, FGM remains a significant problem, with millions of girls and women still undergoing the procedure every year.

Key Milestones

  • 1997: The United Nations General Assembly adopts a resolution condemning FGM as a violation of human rights.
  • 2003: The International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM is first observed on February 6th.
  • 2012: The United Nations General Assembly adopts a resolution calling for the elimination of FGM by 2030.

Celebration Guide

How to Get Involved

  • Educate yourself: Learn about FGM, its effects, and the efforts being made to eliminate it.
  • Raise awareness: Share information about FGM on social media, with friends and family, and in your community.
  • Support organizations: Donate to organizations working to end FGM, such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • Advocate for change: Contact your government representatives and urge them to support laws and policies that protect girls and women from FGM.

How to Support Survivors

  • Listen and believe: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for survivors to share their stories.
  • Provide resources: Offer access to medical, psychological, and legal support services.
  • Empower survivors: Encourage survivors to become advocates and leaders in the fight against FGM.

How to Celebrate the Day

  • Organize events: Host events, such as workshops, rallies, and fundraisers, to raise awareness about FGM.
  • Use social media: Share messages, images, and videos on social media using hashtags such as #EndFGM and #ZeroTolerance.
  • Engage with others: Participate in online discussions, forums, and webinars to learn from experts and share your own experiences.

Things to Note

Cultural Taboos

  • FGM is often seen as a private, family matter, making it difficult to discuss openly.
  • FGM is sometimes viewed as a necessary part of cultural or religious tradition.
  • Survivors of FGM may be stigmatized or ostracized by their communities.

Social Taboos

  • FGM is often associated with shame, guilt, and fear, making it difficult to discuss openly.
  • FGM is sometimes seen as a taboo topic, making it challenging to raise awareness and advocate for change.
  • FGM is often linked to gender-based violence, making it essential to address the broader issue of gender inequality.

Personal Taboos

  • FGM can be a traumatic and sensitive topic for survivors, making it essential to approach the issue with empathy and respect.
  • FGM can be a difficult topic to discuss, especially for those who have undergone the procedure or have family members who have undergone FGM.
  • FGM can evoke strong emotions, making it crucial to create a safe and supportive environment for discussions and advocacy.