The practice of female genital cutting remains a widespread issue around the world, with more than 230 million women and girls having undergone the procedure, according to a new analysis by UNICEF. This represents an increase of 30 million since the organization’s last global estimate in 2016.
While some countries have seen a decline in the prevalence of cutting, others have not experienced any change. In Burkina Faso, the share of girls aged 15 to 19 who have undergone cutting has fallen significantly, but in Somalia, where an estimated 99 percent of women have been cut, the practice remains unchanged.
The overall number of girls subject to cutting is growing each year due to the high rates of population growth in countries where the practice is prevalent. The United Nations has set a goal to eliminate female genital cutting by 2030, but current progress is not sufficient to meet that target.
Some countries that have made progress in reducing cutting now face challenges due to conflicts and displacement from climate emergencies, which make people more vulnerable and reliant on traditional community structures that endorse the practice.
The new data also highlights that female genital cutting is a worldwide issue, with the practice prevalent in sub-Saharan African countries, parts of the Middle East, Asia, and even immigrant communities in North America and Europe.
Efforts to end the practice have been successful in some countries through strategies such as criminalizing cutting and education campaigns. However, challenges remain in countries where the practice is deeply ingrained in cultural and religious beliefs.
Despite the grim statistics, there are individuals and organizations working to end female genital cutting. Campaigners like Sadia Hussein in Kenya and Dr. Mariam Dahir in Somalia are advocating for change and raising awareness about the physical and psychological harm caused by cutting.
While progress may be slow, there is hope that with continued efforts and support, the practice of female genital cutting can be eliminated globally.
