Millions of girls face a hidden threat—UNFPA calls for urgent action.
The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) warns that 4.5 million girls worldwide are at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM) this year, adding to the 230 million women and girls already affected globally. FGM—altering or injuring female genitalia for non-medical reasons—is a human rights violation and carries lifelong physical and mental risks, even when “medicalised.”
The practice persists in 94 countries, mostly in Africa, where social norms and myths sustain it. In Ethiopia, 75% of women aged 15–49 have undergone FGM. Yet, progress is being made: new laws, education, and religious decrees in countries like Djibouti, Eritrea, and Somalia challenge its legitimacy.
Ahead of International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM (Feb 6), UNFPA urges governments, communities, and individuals to act collectively to end FGM by 2030, promoting education, awareness, and cost-effective interventions.
“Two-thirds of people globally want FGM to end. It’s time to protect girls and break harmful traditions,” UNFPA said.
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