International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation

Millions of girls around the world are still threatened by genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), despite a century of efforts to put an end to it. In the 29 countries in Africa and the Middle East where the practice is concentrated, more than 125 million girls and women have been cut. UNFPA projects that a further 86 million young girls worldwide are likely to experience some form of the practice by 2030, if current trends continue.

"It is unacceptable that these practices continue to threaten the lives and futures of so many women and girls. It is an affront to their human dignity, an assault on their health and an impediment to the well-being of their families, communities and countries. Human development cannot be fully achieved as long as women and girls continue to suffer from this human rights violation or live in fear of it" Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director, UNFPA.

The UN in the Maldives through offices of UNFPA, UN Women and the Office for the High Commission for Human Rights jointly promote women’s rights in the context of Islam. Building on initiatives from 2013, UNFPA is committed to work with the partners to end harmful practices including violence against women and Female Genital Mutilation.

UNFPA protects human rights, including the rights of young people, especially adolescent girls. We strongly believe that when young people especially young women claim their right to health, including sexual and reproductive health, education and decent work, they become powerful agents for social and economic development.

“Every young girl, regardless of where she lives, or her economic circumstances, has the right to fulfil her human potential, free from coercion, harm or violence. We  can  ensure  that  she  does,  and  we  must.  The  sustainable,  equitable, inclusive future we all want depends on the actions we take today to ensure the dignity, health and well-being of every girl” Dr. Osotimehin.