Female Genital Mutilation

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), known also as female circumcision and Female Genital Cutting (FGM/C) primarily affects women in Africa, the Middle East and Asia, as well as some women and girls whose families have migrated from practising countries. FGM involves the cutting or removal of external female genitalia. It imposes significant risks to health of affected women and girls. It is internationally recognised as a form of violence against women and girls and a significant violation of their human rights. This entry explores how FGM is defined, its prevalence, why it is carried out, its impact upon women and girls and the obligations imposed upon states by international law. It discusses the steps some countries have taken to meet their obligations. Whilst recognising important steps have been made to address FGM, concerns are nonetheless raised about the feasibility of eliminating FGM by 2030, in accordance with Sustainable Development Goal 5.3.