International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation – 06 Feb

A Global Call to End a Harmful Tradition

Every year on February 6, the global community marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) — a powerful day of awareness, advocacy, and action. It’s more than a symbolic gesture; it’s a collective demand to protect girls and women from a practice that gravely violates their human rights and threatens their health, well-being, and freedom.

This day was officially declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012, recognizing decades of tireless efforts by grassroots organizations, activists, and international partners. It supports the mission of the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of FGM, the world’s largest coordinated initiative working to end FGM through community-based solutions, policy change, and survivor support.

FGM — also referred to as female circumcision — includes procedures that intentionally alter or injure the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It has no health benefits and often results in lifelong physical and psychological damage. Risks include chronic pain, infection, infertility, obstructed labor, and post-traumatic stress.

Purpose of the Day: Awareness, Advocacy, and Action

The International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM – 06 Feb serves a critical, threefold mission:

• Raise global awareness about the brutal realities and long-term dangers of FGM.
• Promote multi-level interventions — from community education to national laws — to eradicate the practice.
• Empower survivors and communities to advocate for change and protect the health and rights of girls and women.

This day is a clarion call to governments, educational systems, healthcare providers, and cultural leaders to reject silence and challenge deeply entrenched traditions. According to UNICEF, more than 200 million girls and women worldwide have undergone some form of FGM — with millions more at risk in the next decade unless urgent, sustained action is taken.

FGM is not a religious requirement. It is a harmful cultural norm sustained by misinformation, gender inequality, and societal pressure. Combating it requires not just condemnation, but investment in education, healthcare, and community empowerment.

Zero Tolerance Is Possible: Global Efforts and Progress

Though the challenge is immense, progress is happening — led by the courage of survivors, the determination of youth, and the strength of collective advocacy. Over the last two decades:

• 26 countries across Africa and the Middle East have enacted laws criminalizing FGM practices.
• Young activists and survivors are using social media and community dialogue to spark grassroots change.
• Global campaigns have increased visibility, funding, and political will to address FGM as a human rights emergency.
• The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme operates in 17 countries, supporting initiatives such as community dialogues, alternative rites of passage, training healthcare workers, and legal aid for survivors.

In countries like Kenya, Senegal, and Egypt, prevalence rates have declined due to persistent advocacy and increased awareness. These examples underscore that zero tolerance is not just a dream — it’s a goal within reach.

Theme for 2025: Investing in Survivors and Prevention

The anticipated global theme for 2025 is:

“Investing in Survivors, Leading Change”

This theme emphasizes the dual focus on preventing FGM before it happens and supporting those already affected. Survivors often lack access to healthcare, mental health services, legal protection, and economic opportunities. Investing in their recovery, empowerment, and leadership is key to dismantling the cycle of silence and suffering.

The 2025 theme encourages policymakers, donors, and communities to fund:

• Healthcare systems trained in trauma-informed care
• Safe spaces for survivor support
• Education and economic programs for girls and women
• Legal reforms that uphold justice and accountability

How You Can Get Involved on 06 February

You don’t need to be in a position of power to contribute. Ending FGM starts with education, conversation, and community engagement. Here are practical ways to participate on February 6:

• Learn and share facts about FGM — use credible sources to understand the cultural roots and health impacts.
• Support survivor voices by sharing stories and resources using hashtags like #EndFGM and #ZeroToleranceToFGM.
• Contribute to or volunteer with NGOs that offer shelter, counseling, and advocacy for girls at risk.
• Organize awareness activities — from school discussions to public webinars — to encourage local dialogue.
• Call on local and national leaders to fund anti-FGM initiatives and enforce protective laws.

Most importantly, challenge myths and speak up against gender-based violence in your circles. Even small acts of solidarity help dismantle systems of harm.

Ending FGM: A Universal Human Rights Imperative

FGM is not about condemning cultures — it’s about protecting basic human rights. Every girl has the right to bodily autonomy, health, education, and a life free from violence. As global citizens, it’s our shared responsibility to ensure future generations of girls can grow up in safety and dignity.

By raising awareness and demanding action, we move closer to a world where zero tolerance isn’t just a goal, but a reality.