International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM: Every year on February 6, the UN supports the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation. Since its inception in 2003, the UN has been working to stop female genital mutilation, and this day is an important element of that effort.
International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM: History
Supporters of this day acknowledge that cultures are dynamic and that there is a strong belief that FGM should be eradicated as soon as possible. The movement focuses on women’s rights and the health of their bodies, particularly with regard to protecting their physical health, which can have long-term effects. It also aims to contribute to the larger fight against violence against women and girls. According to the global movement Every Woman, Every Child, FGM is not only practiced in 29 countries in Africa and the Middle East but also in parts of Asia and Latin America. Despite being concentrated in particular regions, FGM is still practiced among immigrant communities in Western Europe,North America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Shockingly, 120 to 140 million women have undergone FGM, and every year, at least 3 million girls are at risk, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). The goal is to increase awareness about FGM globally and work towards its complete elimination. Although this practice has persisted for centuries, there is evidence to suggest that FGM can be eradicated within a single generation with the right programs. Even in the United States, recent reports show a threefold increase in the number of affected women and girls compared to 1990.
International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM: Observing The Day
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is an international observation day rather than a public holiday. It is a component of the UN’s joint efforts to accomplish its Sustainable Development Goals, of which the abolition of FGM is a critical objective under Goal 5.
Activism has played a significant role in raising awareness about FGM; on Zero Tolerance Day in 2015, Equality Now reported that important entities such as the White House, the Department of Justice, the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Ambassador at-Large for Global Women’s Issues, and the USCIS all issued statements condemning the practice of FGM. Each year, on February 6, the UN observes FGM. These groups are all working towards the ambitious goal of eliminating FGM by the year 2030.
International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM: Theme
As a call to action, “Her Voice” urges communities, organizations, and individuals to stand together in support of the rights and well-being of women and girls as they courageously speak out against and work towards the eradication of this harmful practice. This year’s theme, “Her Voice,” is a powerful recognition of the significance of amplifying and empowering the voices of women and girls in the collective efforts to eliminate female genital mutilation. It emphasizes the importance of listening to and honoring the experiences, perspectives, and resilience of those who are directly affected by FGM.
Why is FGM not banned in India?
FGM is not as common in India as it is in some other countries, and it is mainly reported by the Bohra Muslim community. There is no specific national ban on FGM, which could be due to a number of reasons, such as cultural sensitivities, worries about religious freedom, and difficulties enforcing laws consistently among different communities.
Raising awareness, working with affected communities, and advocating for legal measures to protect girls and women from this harmful practice are all important aspects of the fight against female genital mutilation in India. Local and international organizations, as well as activists, are critical to advancing legal changes and promoting education about the health and human rights implications of female genital mutilation. It is advisable to review the most recent legal developments to determine whether the status of female genital mutilation in India has changed.
Also Read About: National Golden Retriever Day