WHO’s Call to Strengthen Alliances Against Female Genital Mutilation
06 FEB 2025
This article, based on WHO’s message, highlights the urgent need to strengthen alliances and movements to end female genital mutilation globally. Today, on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, it examines progress, challenges, and the collective responsibility to protect millions of girls and women.
Female genital mutilation continues to impact millions of girls and women globally, leaving them with deep physical, emotional, and psychological scars. The practice is a violation of human rights and a serious public health issue that affects over 230 million individuals worldwide. If the current trend continues, an additional 27 million girls may experience this violation by 2030. The urgency to take action has never been greater.
On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, the World Health Organization (WHO), alongside UNFPA and UNICEF, reiterates its commitment to working with governments, organizations, and communities to bring an end to this harmful practice. Progress has been made in many parts of the world. Countries such as Kenya and Uganda have witnessed a decline in prevalence, thanks to collaborative efforts that engage communities in advocacy and education. These initiatives demonstrate that change is possible when alliances are strengthened and movements gain momentum.
Since the launch of the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation in 2008, and with WHO’s involvement, nearly seven million girls and women have gained access to prevention and protection services. Community engagement has played a key role in shifting perceptions, with 48 million people publicly committing to abandon the practice. Additionally, mass media campaigns have reached 220 million individuals, spreading awareness and fostering dialogue. In just the past two years, close to 12,000 grassroots organizations and 112,000 community and frontline workers have mobilized to address this critical issue.
PC: UNICEF
Despite these efforts, the progress remains fragile. The situation in the Gambia highlights the challenges that persist, as attempts to repeal the country’s ban on female genital mutilation continue. Though an initial proposal to lift the ban was rejected by the parliament, the debate continues, posing a significant threat to the rights and well-being of future generations. Decades of work to change attitudes and policies could be at risk if such setbacks are not addressed.
Currently, of the 31 countries where national data on prevalence are available, only seven are on track to meet the Sustainable Development Goal of eliminating female genital mutilation by 2030. The pace of progress must increase significantly to reach this target. This requires stronger alliances among global and local leaders, healthcare professionals, educators, and social workers. Greater accountability is needed to ensure that human rights commitments are upheld and policies designed to protect girls are effectively implemented. Survivors must also have access to essential healthcare services, legal support, and community resources.
Investment in proven interventions remains crucial. Funding from international donors and local partners has supported life-changing work, but additional resources are needed to expand programs and reach vulnerable populations. Governments, civil society, and advocacy groups must continue to work together to sustain the progress that has been made and prevent any regression.
The responsibility to end female genital mutilation does not rest with one entity alone. It requires a collective effort across sectors, ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to live free from harm. The momentum must not slow down. WHO and its partners emphasize that now is the time to act decisively.
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