Female Genital Mutilation: A Harmful Practice and Global Efforts to Eradicate It
Introduction
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a human rights violation that affects millions of girls and women worldwide. It involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons, often performed in childhood or adolescence. The practice has no health benefits and causes severe physical, psychological, and social harm.
Despite global efforts to end FGM, it remains deeply rooted in cultural traditions across parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. However, progress is being made through education, legislation, and grassroots activism. This article explores the dangers of FGM, why it persists, and what’s being done to eradicate it.
What is Female Genital Mutilation?
FGM refers to procedures that alter or injure female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies FGM into four types:
- Type I (Clitoridectomy): Partial or total removal of the clitoris.
- Type II (Excision): Removal of the clitoris and the labia minora, sometimes including the labia majora.
- Type III (Infibulation): Narrowing of the vaginal opening by cutting and repositioning the labia, sometimes stitched together.
- Type IV: Other harmful procedures like pricking, piercing, or scraping the genital area.
FGM is usually performed without anaesthesia by traditional practitioners using razor blades, knives, or glass, leading to severe health risks.
The Devastating Consequences of FGM
FGM has lifelong effects on physical and mental health.
1. Immediate Health Risks
- Severe pain and shock due to lack of anaesthesia.
- Excessive bleeding (haemorrhage), infections, and sepsis from unsanitary tools.
- Urinary and menstrual problems due to scar tissue formation.
2. Long-Term Health Complications
- Chronic pain and sexual dysfunction.
- Increased risk of childbirth complications, leading to maternal and infant mortality.
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
3. Social and Emotional Consequences
- FGM is often tied to gender inequality and control over female sexuality.
- Many girls experience forced marriages and early pregnancies as a result.
- Survivors often struggle with self-esteem and relationships later in life.
Why Does FGM Continue?
FGM is not a religious obligation, yet it persists due to deep-seated cultural beliefs and social pressure.
1. Cultural and Social Norms
- It is often seen as a rite of passage to womanhood.
- In some communities, girls who are not cut face stigma, rejection, or even violence.
2. Misconceptions About Purity and Marriageability
- Many believe FGM ensures virginity and sexual modesty.
- Some families think uncut girls will not find husbands.
3. Lack of Awareness and Education
- Many communities don’t understand the dangers of FGM.
- Women who underwent FGM may continue the practice, believing it’s necessary.
Global Efforts to End FGM
1. Stronger Laws and Policies
- Over 30 countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia have banned FGM.
- The United Nations (UN) and WHO classify FGM as a human rights violation.
- Many Western countries prosecute FGM, even when performed abroad.
2. Community-Led Education & Awareness
- Local activists and NGOs work within communities to change minds.
- Educational programmes teach families about the health risks and legal consequences.
- Alternative Rites of Passage (ARP): Some communities replace FGM with symbolic ceremonies that do not harm girls.
3. Survivor Support & Rehabilitation
- Many organisations offer medical care, psychological counselling, and legal aid to survivors.
- Survivors speaking out against FGM help break the cycle for future generations.
4. International Campaigns
- The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to eliminate FGM by 2030.
- February 6th is the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, raising awareness worldwide.
- Celebrities, activists, and organisations like UNICEF, WHO, and Amnesty International continue to push for change.
What Can You Do to Help?
Ending FGM requires global cooperation. Here’s how you can make a difference:
✅ Educate yourself and others about FGM’s dangers and human rights violations.
✅ Support organisations like Equality Now, Orchid Project, and UN Women that work to end FGM.
✅ Speak up and challenge harmful beliefs—especially if you come from an affected community.
✅ Advocate for stronger policies and government action against FGM.
✅ Empower survivors by listening to their stories and amplifying their voices.
Final Thoughts
Female Genital Mutilation is a brutal practice that violates human rights and causes immense suffering. While cultural traditions run deep, change is possible with education, advocacy, and legal action.
With global efforts, FGM rates are declining, but more work is needed to protect future generations of girls. By spreading awareness and supporting initiatives, we can move closer to a world where every girl grows up safe, healthy, and free from harm.
Key Takeaways:
✔ FGM is a harmful practice with no medical benefits.
✔ It causes lifelong health problems, including chronic pain and childbirth complications.
✔ Cultural traditions, social pressure, and misinformation fuel its continuation.
✔ Global laws, education, and community activism are helping to end FGM.
✔ You can help by spreading awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for change.
Together, we can end FGM and protect the rights of girls and women worldwide. 💜✊
