- On February 6, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed.
What is Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)?
- FGM is a practice in which the genitalia of women and girls are partially or completely removed without any medical reason.
- This practice is predominantly found in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and among migrant communities in Western countries. It is a violation of human rights and has significant physical, mental, and social consequences.
Theme for Zero Tolerance Day for FGM in 2025:
- The theme for 2025 was: "Accelerate the Pace: Strengthening Partnerships and Building Movements to End FGM."
- This year, 4.4 million girls were at risk of FGM, and globally, over 200 million women and girls have been affected by it.
United Nations Initiatives:
- In 2008, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and UNICEF launched a joint program to end FGM.
- So far, over 7 million girls and women have received prevention, protection, and care services.
- More than 50 million people have publicly declared their commitment to abandon FGM.
- FGM is not only a harmful practice but a grave violation of basic human rights. Efforts continue globally to eliminate it through education, laws, and support for affected individuals.
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