KEY POINTS
- An estimated 4.5 million girls are expected to face female genital mutilation (FGM) in 2026.
- More than 230 million women and girls have already endured FGM globally.
- UN and WHO leaders urge sustained investment and community action to meet the 2030 elimination goal.
UN and health leaders highlighted an urgent global issue on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.
They stressed that FGM remains widespread and harmful, affecting communities worldwide.
In 2026 alone, around 4.5 million girls, many under age five, are at risk of undergoing FGM.
This risk underscores persistent social pressures and inadequate protection efforts in affected regions.
Worldwide, more than 230 million girls and women are living with the consequences of FGM.
These lifelong physical and psychological impacts reach far beyond individual victims.
Leaders described FGM as a clear violation of human rights and dignity.
The procedure has no medical benefit and carries serious health risks.
Current progress shows promise: prevalence has dropped in many regions.
Nearly two-thirds of people in countries where FGM is common now support ending the practice.
Half of all gains since 1990 have occurred in the last decade alone, leaders said.
Despite this, progress must accelerate to reach the Sustainable Development Goal target to end FGM by 2030.
UN agencies identified education as a key tool for prevention.
Community outreach, engagement with religious and traditional leaders, and informed parents are essential.
Media and trusted opinion figures can also shape attitudes.
Public campaigns and social messaging help challenge harmful norms.
Survivor support must extend beyond prevention to comprehensive care.
Accessible health services, psychosocial help, and legal assistance were highlighted as priorities.
Investments in ending FGM offer both health and economic benefits.
UN leaders noted every dollar invested can yield up to ten dollars in broader societal returns.
However, global funding for related programmes is declining.
Cuts to education, child protection, and health initiatives threaten hard-won gains.
Leaders also warned against the “medicalization” of FGM, where procedures are carried out in clinical settings.
Such practices risk misrepresenting FGM as safe or acceptable when it is not.
Without predictable financing and community outreach, progress could reverse.
Millions more girls might face this harmful practice in coming years.
WHO and UN partners reiterated the need for global and local partnerships.
They called for renewed commitment from governments, civil society, and families alike.
The leadership statement concluded by reaffirming dedication to ending FGM.
All partners are urged to intensify efforts and resources before 2030.
