Every year, on February 6, the world observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the harmful effects of FGM, a practice that involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. It is a violation of human rights and a form of gender-based violence that affects millions of women and girls worldwide.
The International Day of Zero Tolerance aims to unite communities, governments, and organizations in the fight to end FGM by raising awareness, fostering understanding, and encouraging actions to protect girls from this harmful practice. The global observance seeks to create a future where no girl or woman has to suffer from the consequences of FGM.
In 2025, the theme of the day is “Stepping Up the Pace. Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM.” This powerful theme emphasizes the urgent need for collective action and faster progress in the fight to eliminate FGM once and for all.
Key Details of International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | February 6, annually |
| Purpose | Raise awareness and encourage efforts to eliminate FGM globally. |
| Theme for 2025 | “Stepping Up the Pace. Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM.” |
| First Observed | 2003 |
| Focus | Human rights, gender equality, child protection, and the elimination of FGM. |
| Organization Behind | United Nations, UNFPA, UNICEF, and various global NGOs. |
| Best Hashtags | #EndFGM #ZeroTolerance #StopFGM #EndViolence #GirlsRights |
What is Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)?
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) refers to procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is a deeply entrenched cultural practice in certain regions of the world, particularly in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
FGM has no health benefits and can cause severe physical, emotional, and psychological harm to women and girls. The practice is often carried out without proper medical care, and many of its victims face lifelong complications such as infertility, chronic pain, infections, and complications during childbirth.
There are four major types of FGM, ranging from clitoridectomy (removal of the clitoris) to infibulation (narrowing of the vaginal opening). The practice is usually carried out on girls between infancy and age 15, though in some regions, women undergo FGM later in life.
History and Origin
The International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation was established by the United Nations in 2003. The day aims to bring attention to the widespread practice of FGM and to advocate for its elimination. The decision to observe this day was rooted in a growing global awareness of the negative impact of FGM on girls’ and women’s health and well-being.The UN Resolution called for zero tolerance toward FGM, recognizing it as a harmful traditional practice that violates human rights. Since then, February 6th has become a global day of action where governments, organizations, activists, and individuals come together to discuss, campaign, and take concrete steps to end the practice.
The observance of this day is part of the broader agenda of gender equality and women’s empowerment, particularly under the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which call for the elimination of harmful practices, including FGM, by 2030.
The Global Impact of FGM
Globally, it is estimated that more than 200 million women and girls have been subjected to FGM. The practice is most prevalent in 30 countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, but it has also been reported in immigrant communities in Europe, North America, and other parts of the world.
FGM perpetuates harmful gender inequalities and violates the rights of women and girls to live free from violence and discrimination. The practice is often justified by deeply rooted cultural, social, and religious beliefs, though it is not required by any religion. In many cases, FGM is seen as a rite of passage, a means to control women’s sexuality, or a way to ensure marriageability.
Consequences of FGM:
- Health Complications: Including severe bleeding, infections, chronic pain, and complications during childbirth.
- Psychological Trauma: Many women and girls suffer long-term mental health consequences, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
- Violation of Human Rights: FGM is a violation of girls’ and women’s rights to health, life, and security.
The Role of the International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM
The International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) serves several crucial purposes:
- Raising Awareness: It educates people about the harmful effects of FGM and how it violates human rights.
- Changing Attitudes: The day encourages cultural shifts by addressing harmful practices and changing traditional beliefs about FGM.
- Advocacy and Policy Change: The observance calls on governments and organizations to take action against FGM through stronger laws, education, and community outreach programs.
- Empowering Survivors: It highlights the voices of survivors and advocates for the psychological and medical care they need.
International Support for Ending FGM
The United Nations (UN) has been instrumental in leading efforts to eradicate FGM. It declared February 6 as the International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM to help raise awareness and promote global action to end the practice. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and UNICEF are also active in fighting FGM by providing education, supporting laws to ban the practice, and working directly with communities to encourage the abandonment of FGM.
Many grassroots organizations and activists are also playing a key role in supporting FGM survivors, raising awareness, and changing cultural norms. Collaborative efforts between governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and affected communities are essential for eradicating FGM.
How to Observe International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM
- Raise Awareness: Use social media platforms to share information about FGM, its harmful effects, and ways to help eradicate it. Hashtags such as #ZeroToleranceToFGM and #EndFGM can spread the message far and wide.
- Support Organizations: Donating to or volunteering with organizations working to end FGM can make a significant impact. Many NGOs focus on education, providing medical care to survivors, and advocating for legislative change.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Contact local representatives to support policies that help protect women and girls from FGM. This can include pushing for stronger laws against the practice and ensuring resources for education and healthcare.
- Educate Others: Hosting community events, webinars, or discussions about FGM can be an effective way to educate people in your area. Sharing survivor stories and expert opinions can help shed light on the importance of eliminating FGM globally.
The International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation is an important reminder that FGM is a harmful practice that must be eradicated. By raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for policy change, we can make strides toward a world where all women and girls can live free from the trauma and risks of FGM. The observance of this day brings us closer to a future where zero tolerance to FGM is not just a global slogan, but a reality.
By working together to end FGM, we can create a safer, healthier world for future generations of girls and women.
