The National Assembly of The Gambia has voted to uphold the ban on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a practice that involves cutting or removing some or all of the external female genitalia. This decision reaffirms the country’s commitment to human rights, gender equality, and protecting the health and well-being of girls and women.
FGM is a harmful practice that can cause severe physical and psychological damage, including infection, childbearing complications, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The ban on FGM in The Gambia is a crucial step towards eradicating this practice and meeting the Sustainable Development Goal targets.
The decision to maintain the FGM ban aligns with The Gambia’s international and regional commitments to prevent harmful practices against girls and women. It also recognizes the tireless efforts of survivors, activists, civil society organizations, and faith-based groups working to end FGM.
However, the progress made in ending FGM is fragile and can be easily lost. Legislative bans on FGM are crucial, but they cannot alone end the practice. Continued advocacy and engagement with communities and grassroots organizations are necessary to advance gender equality, end violence against girls and women, and secure the gains made to accelerate progress to end FGM.
Supporting survivors of FGM is also urgent, as many suffer from long-term physical and psychological harm. Comprehensive medical and psychological care is needed to help them heal from the scars inflicted by this harmful practice.
The UN agencies commend the government, civil society, and communities in The Gambia for their efforts to end FGM and remain committed to supporting them in the fight against this harmful practice. Together, we must ensure that all girls and women can live free from violence and harmful practices and that their rights, bodily integrity, and dignity are upheld.
WHO/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
