New Global Report Reveals the Alarming Prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation in 94 Countries

A recently published report sheds light on the deeply concerning issue of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) as it has been identified in a staggering 94 countries worldwide. This extensive research highlights that the scale and impact of this harmful practice are far broader than previously understood, affecting millions of girls and women who are either subjected to it or are at risk. The report, titled The Time Is Now End Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting: An Urgent Need for a Global Response - Five Year Update, was produced by the End FGM European Network, Equality Now, and the U.S. Network to End FGM/C.

While efforts to eliminate FGM/C progress, significant hurdles continue to obstruct concrete action. Many governments hesitate to address FGM/C, particularly in nations less commonly associated with the practice. The report cites factors such as inadequate legal frameworks, a lack of comprehensive data, limited public awareness, and insufficient financial backing from the global community as major obstacles to combating FGM/C.

The evidence compiled in this report stems from various sources, including small-scale surveys, personal testimonies from survivors and activists, and findings from grassroots organizations. This diverse approach underscores the urgent need to enhance preventive measures and expand protection for vulnerable populations. The study is a follow-up to a 2020 report, which had already indicated a significantly underestimated extent of the practice globally. Since then, FGM/C has been noticed in local communities across places like Azerbaijan, Cambodia, and Vietnam, as well as additional evidence in Colombia, Malaysia, and other countries.

Increasing Numbers of Affected Women

UNICEF reports that in 2020, an estimated 200 million women and girls underwent FGM/C in 31 countries. More alarmingly, this figure rose to over 230 million in 2024, accentuated by updated data from previously excluded nations and rising populations where FGM/C occurs. The reported increase signifies the compelling need for a heightened focus on regions where the practice remains largely unacknowledged.

Although international funding generally targets a few African nations, the coverage and resources allocated for combating FGM/C in Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East are glaringly insufficient. Societal recognition of FGM/C varies significantly, with some governments even denying its existence. This reluctance hinders progress and denies millions access to necessary protections.

Legislative Gaps and Victims' Rights

Widely recognized as a severe violation of human rights, FGM/C is the partial or complete removal of female genitalia without any medical justification. Its roots lie in systemic gender inequality aimed at controlling women's bodies. The practice is linked to grave health repercussions, ranging from infections and chronic pain to psychological trauma and higher maternal mortality rates. Alarmingly, out of the 94 identified nations, only 58 (61%) have explicit laws against FGM/C, leaving vast numbers of women unprotected.

Countries like India, Jordan, and the United States have received international recommendations urging them to step up measures against FGM/C. On a more optimistic note, the number of countries with specific laws prohibiting FGM/C has increased, with nations such as Indonesia and Sudan enacting new legislation.

The Threat of Medicalization and Backlash

Despite these legislative advancements, threats to women's rights have emerged, as seen in attempts to dismantle existing anti-FGM/C laws in several countries. Additionally, concerns arise regarding the medicalization of FGM/C, where the procedure is performed by healthcare workers under the false legitimacy of medical practices. This misconstruction poses a significant risk, as it complicates efforts to eradicate FGM/C and confronts misconceptions surrounding women's rights.

As the world approaches 2030, the timeline set by the Sustainable Development Goals to eliminate FGM/C is rapidly closing. Global efforts must prioritize empowering grassroots organizations, enhancing legal frameworks, and fostering collaborative approaches to combat the harmful practice.

As Caitlin LeMay from the U.S. End FGM/C Network rightly notes, the countless individuals affected by FGM/C continue to share their stories, raising awareness and strengthening global movements against this violation. Ensuring that voices of victims remain central to this fight is imperative for creating a future free from FGM/C.

Conclusion

The World cannot afford to overlook the extensive impact of FGM/C. Governments, international organizations, and advocates must unite to implement comprehensive strategies that encompass legislation, community engagement, and increased funding to drive meaningful change. Only through collective and sustained efforts can we hope to eradicate this pervasive issue once and for all.