Today, 6th February marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This day holds great significance as it sheds light on a global issue that affects millions of girls and women around the world. As we observe this day, let us take a look at the importance of the day and how far the United Nations (UN) has come in achieving their goals in eradicating FGM.
First, let’s understand what exactly is FGM. It is a practice that involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or any other injury to the female genital organs, for non-medical reasons. FGM is a violation of human rights and has both physical and psychological consequences for the victims. It is primarily practiced in African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries, but the issue extends to other parts of the world as well.
The significance of this day lies in the fact that it aims to raise awareness about FGM and its harmful effects on women and girls. It also calls for action to end this inhumane practice and protect the rights of those at risk.
The UN first declared 6th February as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM in 2003, and since then, it has been observed annually to spread the message of zero tolerance for this act.
Now, the question arises, how far has the UN come in achieving its goals in eradicating FGM? While there has been significant progress, there is still a long way to go. According to the UN, an estimated 200 million girls and women have undergone FGM, and if current trends continue, 68 million more will be at risk by 2030. However, it is essential to acknowledge that there has been a decline in the prevalence of FGM in some countries due to the efforts of various organizations and governments.
The UN has also taken several initiatives to address this issue. In 2012, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution calling for the elimination of FGM and declared it a form of violence against women and girls. The UN also launched the Joint Programme on FGM in 2008, which works towards ending the practice through community-based interventions, research, and advocacy. Moreover, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) also include targets to end FGM by 2030.
Despite these efforts, there are still challenges in eliminating FGM completely. One major challenge is the deep-rooted cultural beliefs and traditions associated with this practice. It is crucial to engage and educate communities, especially men and religious leaders, to bring about a change in attitudes towards FGM. There is also a need for stricter laws and enforcement to protect girls at risk and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
In conclusion, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM is a reminder that we must continue to strive for a world where girls and women are not subjected to this form of violence. It is a day to show our support and solidarity towards ending FGM and protecting the rights of girls and women. Let us all play our part in creating a world of zero tolerance for FGM and ensure that every girl and woman has the right to live a life free from this harmful practice.
Remember, together we can make a difference. Let’s stand united for a better tomorrow, one without FGM.
Stay safe and take care.
– Benjamin Ibrahim, a Retired Permanent Secretary, writes from Lokoja.
