A recent analysis by UNICEF revealed that over 230 million women and girls worldwide have been subjected to female genital cutting, marking a significant increase of 30 million since 2016. While some countries have seen a decline in the practice, others have shown no progress despite laws and campaigns against it.
In Burkina Faso, the percentage of girls aged 15 to 19 who have undergone cutting has dropped from 82% to 39% over the past three decades, showcasing positive change. However, in Somalia, where an estimated 99% of women have undergone the procedure, the prevalence of cutting remains unchanged.
The overall number of girls affected by cutting continues to rise due to high population growth rates in countries where the practice is prevalent. UNICEF expert Claudia Cappa emphasized that the current rate of change is insufficient to meet the United Nations’ goal of eliminating female genital cutting by 2030.
The data also highlighted the global extent of the practice, with millions of women affected in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. In countries like Indonesia, where over half of girls undergo cutting, efforts to end the practice have faced challenges.
While some countries have seen success in reducing cutting rates through education campaigns and legal measures, others, like Somalia, have struggled to make progress. Despite resistance, advocates like Dr. Mariam Dahir in Somaliland continue to push for a total ban on cutting.
Positive changes have occurred in countries like Kenya, where the practice has become less widespread. UNICEF adviser Ms. Cappa noted that changing norms is easier in countries with diverse populations, where communities practicing cutting can be influenced by those who do not support the tradition.
In regions like northwest Kenya, activists like Sadia Hussein have worked to reduce cutting rates by encouraging survivors to speak out and share their experiences. However, challenges remain in fragile countries affected by conflict and climate disasters, where economic hardships can drive families to continue the practice.
Despite obstacles, surveys show that a majority of men and women in affected households in Africa and the Middle East believe female genital cutting should end. However, social pressures and fear of repercussions still prevent some parents from abandoning the practice.
While progress has been made in some regions, the fight to end female genital cutting continues, with advocates working tirelessly to protect the rights and well-being of women and girls worldwide.