International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation observed on February 6 established by the United Nations General Assembly to eradicate female genital mutilation. It was first introduced in 2003.
Female Genital Mutilation
A harmful practice that affects millions of girls and women around the world. Female genital mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. FGM is a violation of human rights and a form of gender-based violence that has no medical benefits and can cause serious health complications. It is also a barrior to achieving gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.
On this day, we join the global movement to end FGM and call for the protection of the rights and dignity of all girls and women. According to UNICEF, the prevalence of FGM has declined by 25% globally since 2000, and more than 60 countries have enacted laws to prohibit or restrict FGM.
Theme of the Day
Theme for the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2023 was "Partnership with men and boys to transform social and gender norms to end FGM"
2022 - "Accelerating Investment to End Female Genital Mutilation"
2021 - "No Time for Global Inaction, Unite, Fund, and Act to End Female Genital Mutilation"
2020 - "Unleashing Youth Power: One decade of accelerating actions for zero female genital mutilation"