Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful practice that violates the human rights, health, and dignity of millions of girls and women across the world.
Female genital mutilation is not only a cultural or social issue. It is a serious public health concern and a profound form of gender based violence. At Orapuh, we recognise the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (Feb 6) as an opportunity to strengthen awareness, advance education, support research, and promote collective action to eliminate FGM in all its forms.
Understanding Female Genital Mutilation
Female genital mutilation refers to all procedures that involve the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non medical reasons. The practice is most commonly carried out on girls between infancy and adolescence, though adult women may also be affected.
FGM has no health benefits. Instead, it causes immediate and long term physical, psychological, and sexual harm. It is recognised internationally as a violation of human rights and a form of discrimination against women and girls.
The Global and African Burden of FGM
Worldwide, more than 200 million girls and women are estimated to be living with the consequences of female genital mutilation. The practice is most prevalent in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as among diaspora communities across the globe.
In many African countries, FGM remains deeply rooted in social norms, traditions, and misconceptions related to marriage, purity, religion, and social acceptance. However, culture is not static. Harmful practices can and must change, especially when they threaten health, life, and human dignity.
Why Zero Tolerance Matters
The International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation reinforces the message that no form of FGM is acceptable, at any time or under any circumstance. Medicalisation of FGM does not make it safe. Performing FGM in healthcare settings still violates ethical standards and human rights.
Zero tolerance means:
- No justification based on culture, religion, or tradition
- No acceptance of partial or symbolic cutting
- No medical involvement in harmful practices
- No silence in the face of abuse
Ending FGM requires firm commitment at individual, community, institutional, and policy levels.
Health Consequences of Female Genital Mutilation
Female genital mutilation has serious and lifelong health implications. These include:
- Severe pain, bleeding, and infection
- Urinary and menstrual problems
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Complications during pregnancy and childbirth
- Increased risk of newborn complications
- Sexual dysfunction
- Psychological trauma, anxiety, and depression
FGM also undermines sexual and reproductive health rights and places an unnecessary burden on already strained health systems.
FGM as a Public Health and Human Rights Issue
FGM intersects with public health, gender equality, education, child protection, and social justice. It limits girls’ access to education, exposes them to early and forced marriage, and reinforces gender inequality.
From a public health perspective, preventing FGM reduces maternal and neonatal complications and improves overall wellbeing. From a human rights perspective, ending FGM affirms the right of girls and women to bodily autonomy, health, and freedom from violence.
Prevention Through Education and Community Engagement
Education is one of the most powerful tools for ending female genital mutilation. When communities are informed about the health risks and human rights implications of FGM, attitudes can and do change.
Effective prevention strategies include:
- Community based dialogue involving elders, parents, and religious leaders
- Education of girls and boys about health, rights, and gender equality
- Training healthcare workers to prevent, identify, and manage FGM complications
- School based programmes that empower girls to speak up
- Engagement of men and boys as allies for change
Change is most sustainable when it comes from within communities, supported by evidence, respect, and dialogue.
The Role of Health Professionals and Institutions
Healthcare professionals play a critical role in preventing FGM and caring for survivors. This includes refusing to perform FGM, providing compassionate and confidential care, offering counselling, and advocating for prevention.
Institutions such as academic centres, training schools, and research organisations have a responsibility to generate evidence, strengthen capacity, and support policy development. Integrating FGM education into public health, oral health, nursing, and medical training is essential for long term impact.
At Orapuh, we believe that strengthening health education and research communication is key to addressing complex issues like FGM.
Policy, Law, and Accountability
Many countries have enacted laws banning female genital mutilation. However, enforcement remains uneven, and legal measures alone are not sufficient. Effective implementation requires political will, community trust, and coordinated action across sectors.
Policies should prioritise prevention, survivor support, access to healthcare, and protection for girls at risk. Monitoring and accountability mechanisms are essential to ensure progress toward elimination.
The International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM is A Call to Action
This international day reminds us that silence allows harmful practices to persist. Speaking out saves lives. Ending female genital mutilation is achievable, but it requires sustained commitment.
Individuals can challenge harmful norms and protect girls in their communities. Educators and health professionals can provide accurate information and compassionate care. Institutions can invest in research, training, and advocacy. Governments can enforce laws and support community led change.
At Orapuh, we stand for knowledge, equity, and dignity in health. On the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing education, research, and action that protect girls and women and promote healthier, more just societies.
Ending FGM is not only possible. It is necessary. And it starts with zero tolerance.