Female Genital Mutilation NDW 4M www.dhushara.com

Definition of FGM Female genital mutilation comprises all procedures involving partial or total removal of the female external genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. -World Health Organization http://www.benettontalk.com/female_circumcision.jpg

Facts about FGM according to WHO Between 100-140 million girls and women in the world have undergone FGM procedures Approximately 3 million girls are at risk of undergoing FGM every year FGM has been documented in 28 countries in Africa, parts of Asia and the Middle East (some among Central and South America as well) Girls and women living outside place of origin have also undergone the procedure or are at risk (N. America, W. Europe)

What is being done to combat FGM? Extensive work done by local, national and international groups has led to some progress The practice is internationally recognized as a violation of human rights Many countries have put in place policies and legislation to ban it Number of women who do not want to continue the practice is increasing Indications prevalence is declining, especially among younger groups However, overall decline is slow

WHO Who is working on several fronts to contribute to the elimination of female genital mutilation International and national advocacy is important With 10 other UN agencies, developed an Interagency Statement on Eliminating Female Genital Mutilation to be launched this year WHO is working towards improved health care for millions of girls and women living with consequences of FGM WHO believes with successful interventions FGM can be significantly reduced within one generation