Today, 6 February, is International Day Against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This is a sad occasion because far too little is still being done about this cruel practice. According to UNICEF, there are more than 200 million forced circumcised girls and women worldwide. Every year another three million are added - up to 8,000 (!) girls and women every day.
A sad circumstance that hurts me, but at the same time makes me angry. This situation is completely unacceptable. This must not be accepted so simply. Much more decisive action must be taken against this abhorrent practice.
That is why I am calling on International Day against Female Genital Mutilation:
- Zero tolerance for this brutal crime against girls and women!
- Clear commitment by all governments and international organizations to stop FGM!
- Appropriate budgets from the international community of states to finally give millions of girls and women in Africa access to education. Without education, FGM cannot be fought sustainably!
- Official reporting obligation of doctors and hospitals worldwide in FGM cases!
- Immediate reporting of FGM cases by children!
- Compulsory workshops for families of FGM victims to inform them about the terrible dangers and consequences of FGM!
- Raising awareness and educating family members that FGM is now being punished as a crime and severely punished!
Female genital mutilation (FGM) really has no right to exist in the 21st century. Let's put an end to this damn horror!
MANY THANKS!
Love & Peace,
Waris Dirie
