Global FGM Cases Surge to Over 230 Million, UNICEF Reports

Despite efforts to combat female genital mutilation, the practice has seen a significant increase, with most cases in Africa.

Over 230 million women and girls globally have undergone female genital mutilation, marking a 15% increase since 2016.
Africa leads with the highest number of FGM cases, followed by Asia and the Middle East.
Efforts to eradicate FGM are too slow, with the practice still prevalent in conflict-affected countries and communities with high population growth.
The UN targets the elimination of FGM by 2030, but progress needs to be 27 times faster to achieve this goal.
Activists and survivors call for increased funding and support for grassroots organizations fighting to end FGM.