In a powerful joint statement, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the World Health Organization (WHO) reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating female genital mutilation (FGM). This harmful practice affects over 230 million girls and women worldwide, causing irreparable physical, emotional, and psychological harm.
Since 2008, significant progress has been made. Close to 7 million girls and women have accessed prevention and protection services, and 48 million people have publicly declared their abandonment of FGM. Mass media messaging has reached 220 million individuals, raising awareness and sparking change. In the last two years, 12,000 grassroots organizations and 112,000 community and frontline workers have worked tirelessly to drive this change.
Despite these gains, the fight against FGM is far from over. The WHO, under the leadership of Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, is committed to equipping healthcare workers with the skills and training needed to prevent FGM and provide care for survivors. New, evidence-based guidelines will be launched this year to prevent and manage health complications resulting from FGM.
The UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO remain united in their quest to end FGM. They urge governments, healthcare workers, and communities to join forces in eliminating this harmful practice. Together, they can ensure that girls and women are protected from FGM and can live healthy, fulfilling lives, free from the physical and emotional scars of this brutal practice.
WHO/ Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
