1. Female Genital Mutilation
NDW 4M

2. 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

3. Facts about FGM according to WHO
Between 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)

4. 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

5. 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