Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a practice involving the cutting or removal of the external genitals. It is practised in 28 African countries and some communities in the Middle East and Asia. It is a violent and dangerous practice that leaves many girls and women physically, psychologically and emotionally damaged, and can result in serious long-term health problems or even death. This update provides links to campaigns aimed at ending FGM, as well as resources that provide background on the issue and innovative suggestions for moving toward the abandonment of the practice.