“My body belongs to me, and no one is entitled to disrespect it.”
Female Genital Cutting (FGC). Three words that represent a practice as painful as it is unjust, a practice that strips women and girls of their fundamental rights, dignity, and bodily autonomy. For countless girls around the globe, this harsh custom is more than a tradition, it leaves a lasting mark, both seen and unseen. Every year, on February 6th, the globe commemorates the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, signalling that silence is not an alternative anymore. The theme for this year is theme is ‘Her Voice’. We need to communicate, resist, and unite to put an end to this breach of human dignity.
FGM consists of the complete or partial excision of external female genitalia or other harm to female genital organs for non-medical purposes. It is strongly embedded in cultural values, frequently masked as a transition to womanhood. However, no tradition can warrant suffering, and no custom can defend brutality. The truth about FGM involves unbearable agony, severe haemorrhaging, dangerous infections, and, for certain individuals, mortality. Survivors endure lasting effects, persistent pain, difficulties during delivery, diminished sexual capability, and profound psychological distress.
However, aside from the physical injuries, FGM represents a form of control, a rejection of autonomy, and an infringement of basic rights. It removes young girls of their bodily independence, strengthening the notion that their opinions are insignificant. However, they certainly do. The importance of their voices is significant. Their rights are important. Their future is important.
Although advancements are occurring, countless girls continue to be at risk. The battle against FGM needs more than just legislation, it necessitates awareness, education, and empowerment. We need to:
- Disrupt the cycle of silence by informing communities about the harmful effects of FGM.
- Enhance legal safeguards and guarantee responsibility for individuals who engage in this practice.
- Aid survivors by providing medical treatment, emotional support, and a venue to express their experiences.
- Empower girls, ensuring they understand their bodies, so they grow up knowing that their bodies belong to them and to no one else.
On this International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, let’s unite to safeguard the future generation. Let’s build a world where no girl endures in silence, where no custom surpasses human dignity, and where every girl can live freely without fear.
Her body. Her choice. Her future.
