Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation: Protecting Girls, Preserving Rights
Every year on February 6, the world observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). It is dedicated to raising awareness and taking action against a harmful practice affecting millions of girls and women globally.
FGM is a violation of human rights, often performed on young girls with lasting physical and emotional consequences. This day serves as a global call to end this harmful tradition, protect future generations, and promote gender equality.
What Is Female Genital Mutilation?
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines female genital mutilation (FGM) as any practice that involves the partial or complete removal of a woman’s external genitalia or injury to her female genital organs for purposes other than for medical reasons.
Although there are no advantages attached to it for women or girls, they can cause significant bleeding and urination issues, as well as cysts, menstrual problems, infections, difficult births, and a higher risk of neonatal fatalities.
History Of Eradicating Female Genital Mutilation
The need to stop Female Genital Mutilation was first proposed in 2003. However, it was in 2012 that the UN General Assembly passed a resolution to end FGM globally and protect women’s sexual rights. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and UNICEF have been spearheading the biggest global initiative to hasten the eradication of this harmful practice.
The joint effort focuses on 17 nations in Africa and the Middle East, including supporting regional and global activities.
Significance Of Observing International Day Against FGM
The theme for FGM this year is, “Step up the Pace,” which focuses on strengthening collaborations and launching campaigns to end FGM which is a deep-rooted cultural and gender-based injustice. Below are some of the reasons this day is significant.
- International Day Against FGM raises awareness about the dangers of FGM and its impact on millions of girls globally.
- It promotes laws and policies to ban FGM and hold those responsible accountable.
- It helps survivors to share their stories and advocate for change.
- It educates communities to challenge harmful traditions and protect girls’ rights.
Although not a public holiday, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals to eradicate FGM by 2030 are emphasized annually on this day to create awareness.
What Can Children Learn on This Day?
There are many valuable lessons for children to learn. These include:
1. Respect for Human Rights
Children should learn from a young age about human rights which will help them understand that every person has the right to live free from harm, including harmful traditions.
2. The Power of Education
They will learn that FGM is a harmful practice and should not be performed on any girl child.
3. Speaking Up for Others
This day will teach them the need to stand against injustice and support victims will make a difference in our world.
4. The Importance of Equality
They will learn that every child deserves equal opportunities, rights, and freedoms.
Conclusion
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is a reminder that traditions should never come at the cost of a child’s health, dignity, and rights. Although a lot of progress has been made yet many girls remain at risk. By raising awareness, supporting education, and advocating for legal protections, we can work toward a world where no girl child has to endure this harmful practice. Therefore, the call to abolish female genital mutilation is a necessity for a world where justice and equality prevail.
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