International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation
Every 6th of February is a day set aside by the United Nations to reemphasize the need to stop Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) all over the world. The 2017 theme is; “Building a solid and interactive bridge between Africa and the world to accelerate ending FGM by 2030.”
FGM comprises all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is recognized internationally as a violation of human rights of girls and women.
It reflects deep-rooted inequality between the sexes, and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against women and girls. The practice also violates their rights to health, security and physical integrity, their right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and their right to life when the procedure results in death.
To promote the abandonment of FGM, coordinated and systematic efforts are needed, and they must engage whole communities and focus on human rights and gender equality. These efforts should emphasize societal dialogue and the empowerment of communities to act collectively to end the practice. They must also address the sexual and reproductive health needs of women and girls who suffer from its consequences.
The United Nation Population Fund jointly with the United Nation Children’s Fund, leads the largest global programme to accelerate the abandonment of Female Genital Mutilation.
Source: www.un.org