Global Efforts Intensify to End Female Genital Mutilation by 2030

UNICEF, UNFPA, and WHO emphasize the need for urgent action to protect millions of girls at risk and support survivors worldwide.

More than 230 million girls and women are survivors of female genital mutilation (FGM), with millions more at risk each year, particularly in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of FGM has reached millions through prevention services, public declarations, and mass media campaigns since its launch in 2008.
Countries like Kenya and Uganda have seen progress through community-led initiatives, but challenges remain, including attempts to repeal FGM bans in places like The Gambia.
Only seven of 31 countries with national FGM data are on track to meet the Sustainable Development Goal of ending the practice by 2030, highlighting the need for accelerated intervention.
Grassroots organizations, survivors, and child rights advocates are central to shifting harmful gender and social norms, with expanded investment and alliances critical to sustaining progress.