‘Her Voice, Her Future’: UN Highlights Fight Against Female Genital Mutilation
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stark warning that over 4 million girls are currently at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice he condemned as a “horrific and harmful” violation of human rights. Speaking on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, observed on February 6, Guterres called for intensified efforts to eliminate this egregious abuse that affects 200 million women and girls worldwide.
FGM, which includes procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for nonmedical reasons, is recognized internationally as a breach of the rights, health, and integrity of girls and women. It poses severe immediate and long-term risks to their sexual, reproductive, and mental health. The theme for 2024’s observance, “Her voice. Her future,” focuses on amplifying the voices of FGM survivors and empowering them to lead the charge toward eradicating the practice.
Established in 1997 by a coalition including the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the UN Population Fund, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM underscores the global commitment to ending a practice rooted in gender inequality and harmful traditions. The UN’s continued advocacy highlights the critical need to challenge gender-based violence and ensure the welfare and safety of girls and women globally.
