Global Push Intensifies To End Female Genital Mutilation

The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, observed annually on February 6, has renewed global focus on eliminating one of the most severe violations of the rights of girls and women. While progress has been made over recent decades, international agencies warn that current efforts are insufficient to meet the 2030 elimination target without accelerated and sustained action.

Scale of female genital mutilation worldwide

Female genital mutilation (FGM) continues to affect millions globally. More than 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone the practice. An estimated 4.5 million girls, many under the age of five, remain at risk each year. If present trends persist, nearly 22.7 million additional girls could be subjected to FGM by 2030, underscoring the urgency of intensified prevention strategies.

Health, economic and human rights impact

FGM is internationally recognised as a violation of human rights with lifelong physical and mental health consequences. Survivors often face complications related to childbirth, sexual and reproductive health, and psychological trauma. Global treatment costs linked to FGM-related health issues are estimated at a minimum of USD 1.4 billion annually, placing a sustained burden on already stretched health systems.

Threats to progress and fragile gains

Despite notable advances, recent gains remain fragile. Funding cuts, declining investment in health, education and child protection, rising medicalisation of FGM, and growing resistance to elimination efforts threaten to slow or reverse progress. International agencies caution that without predictable financing, community-based prevention programmes and survivor services may be scaled back, exposing millions more girls to risk.

Important Facts for Exams

• FGM is recognised internationally as a human rights violation.
• WHO issues clinical and prevention guidelines on FGM.
• Medicalisation of FGM refers to the practice being carried out by health workers.
• Ending FGM aligns with SDG targets on gender equality and health.

WHO guidelines and multisectoral approach

In 2025, the World Health Organization and HRP released updated evidence-based guidelines on preventing and managing FGM. The framework emphasises survivor-centred care, prevention of medicalisation, and strengthened health system responses aligned with ethical and human rights standards. Experts stress that eliminating FGM requires long-term, multisectoral approaches involving communities, religious and traditional leaders, educators, media, legal systems and robust health services. With only four years remaining to meet the 2030 goal, sustained investment and coordinated action are critical to protect girls and preserve hard-won progress.