"No girl or woman deserves to be cut; it simply destroys our spirit." These words come from Uzodimma Lucy Ogodo, now 26, the Executive Director of Tomorrow Is a Girl Initiative, a Non-governmental organisation (NGO) based in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, in southeastern Nigeria.
Uzodimma is a survivor of FGM and was subjected to the practice at the age of five, before she could understand its meaning or consequences. In her community, FGM was widely accepted as a cultural norm and passed down through generations. It was only later that she came to understand the lasting physical and psychological harm it causes. Her parents eventually recognised the harm of the practice and ensured that her siblings were not subjected to it, highlighting the importance of awareness, education and change.
Uzodimma's experience is not an isolated one. FGM is a global issue affecting girls and women across continents. According to the United Nations, more than 230 million women and girls today have been subjected to FGM. Without accelerated action, an estimated 22.7 million additional girls are at risk of undergoing this practice by 2030, many of them before the age of five. These figures underline the need of sustained and coordinated efforts to end FGM worldwide.
FGM involves the removal or injury of female genitalia for non-medical reasons. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirms that FGM has no medical justification and causes only harm. The consequences can be immediate and long-term, including severe pain, infections, complications during childbirth, psychological trauma, and lasting impacts on sexual and mental health. These effects can follow girls and women throughout their lives, limiting their well-being and opportunities.
Despite the severe harm it causes, FGM continues to be practised in many parts of the world. According to the United Nations Population Fund, FGM is a deeply entrenched social norm in the societies where it is practiced. In some contexts, it is viewed as a rite of passage, while in others it is regarded as a condition for marriage. Some communities believe it is a religious requirement. Since FGM is often closely linked to cultural identity and social acceptance, families may find it difficult to reject the practice. Those who oppose FGM can face social pressure, condemnation or exclusion.
In recognition of the urgent need to eliminate this harmful practice, 6th February is observed as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM. This year's theme, "Towards 2030 - No end to FGM without sustained commitment and investment," highlights that progress requires long-term dedication, adequate resources, and collaboration across all sectors. Ending FGM cannot be achieved through isolated actions, but through continuous engagement at local, national, and international levels.
At European level, the End FGM European Network (End FGM EU) plays a crucial role in sustaining action against FGM. This network brings together 42 organisations across 16 EU countries, including Malta, connecting grassroots communities with NGOs to strengthen prevention, protection, and advocacy efforts throughout Europe.
In Malta, FGM is illegal. Through the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, Malta has strengthened its legal framework to combat violence against women and girls. National legislation criminalises the practice of FGM and imposes obligations to report suspected or known cases to the authorities, reinforcing Malta's commitment to protecting girls from harm.
Within this context, the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) remains committed to promoting equality by raising awareness on different forms of violence affecting women and girls, including FGM.
Ending FGM requires collective responsibility. By working together and maintaining long-term commitment, we can ensure that future generations of girls grow up free from violence with their rights fully respected and protected.
The National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) can be contacted on: 2276 8200, [email protected] or NCPE's social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn - NCPE.Malta)
Renee Laiviera is the Commissioner at the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality.