What are the most effective ways to work with youth who have experienced female genital mutilation?

Having led foreign aid projects for the elimination of FGM it is critical to the mainstream, social, and cultural context and not to make the intervention a saviour's playground'. Having a local FGM advocate or survivor makes the intervention more holistic. Also the intervention has to be interdisciplinary addressing physical, emotional and mental damages caused due to FGM.

Understanding the multifaceted nature of FGM is crucial for effective intervention. In my experience, a culturally sensitive approach that respects individual experiences is key. Tailoring programs to address the unique psychological, health, and social implications of FGM for each person fosters trust and encourages positive change. Engaging with local leaders and community members who influence social norms can also be a powerful strategy for creating sustainable shifts in attitudes and practices surrounding FGM.

Having worked as Child protection specialist/human rights advisor for the UNFPA-Unicef Joint programme to end FGM in 17 countries: A cultural sensitive and localized person-centred and age-responsive approach A “do not harm”, MHPSS, and ethics approach while working with youth that undergone FGM: listen,Understand , empathize and assess if they are in the position to go beyond their own needs as “survivors” to advocate as agents of change (or if might revictimize them if they experienced trauma ) Assess informed consent -or if FGM was performed with free, individual choice without coercion - i.e. for aesthetic, hygiene perceptions, or if they were forced by their family/curator due to community stigma, economic purposes (dowry), etc

Al trabajar con jóvenes que han sufrido mutilación genital femenina, es crucial adoptar un enfoque interdisciplinario. Involucrar a profesionales de la salud, psicólogos y trabajadores sociales para abordar tanto los aspectos físicos como emocionales. Fomentar un entorno seguro, promoviendo la confianza y el respeto cultural. Proporcionar educación sobre salud sexual y derechos, abogando por la abolición de prácticas perjudiciales. Sensibilizar a la comunidad para combatir estigmas y fomentar la inclusión social.

Understanding the context of youth who have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM) entails appreciating the cultural, social, and psychological influences on their experiences. To provide a safe atmosphere for open communication, one must be culturally sensitive, empathic, and nonjudgmental. Recognising the impact of trauma, building trust, and incorporating community resources are all critical to designing effective support programmes.

Working with young girls who have experienced female genital mutilation requires a sensitive and trauma-informed approach. Providing culturally sensitive counseling and medical support services, raising awareness about the harmful effects of the practice, and promoting education and empowerment are essential strategies to help survivors heal and prevent future occurrences.

D'après mon expérience en tant qu'avocate en droit d'asile, c' est que les femmes victimes de mutilations sexuelles sont parfois attaché a sa culture, a ses parents. Il faut un déclic et de l'éducation pour qu'elle ne fassent pas subir cela a ses propres filles plus tard. La faire continuer leur vie dans la normalité sans se sentir stigmatisé par leur communauté si elles choisissent de s'éloigner. Il est important un suivi médical, en France il y a la possibilité de faire une reconstruction de la MGF mutilation intime, il faut un suivi personnalisé, les jeunes ont besoin d'oublier cet élément traumatique de leur vie.

Collaboration with local organizations and advocates is essential to create a supportive environment that respects the cultural context while promoting education and awareness about the risks of female genital mutilation as well as advocating for policy changes to eradicate this harmful practice.

Provide culturally sensitive information and education to empower youth who have experienced female genital mutilation (FGM). Offer resources explaining the physical and emotional implications, emphasize reproductive health knowledge, and promote self-esteem and autonomy. Collaborate with community leaders and healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive support.

Encourage open discourse and raise awareness about the detrimental impacts of female genital mutilation (FGM). Collaborate with local leaders, healthcare providers, and educators to spread awareness about the physical and psychological implications of FGM. Encourage community-led projects that provide kids, particularly females, with knowledge and resources to combat the practice. Prioritise culturally sensitive practices that respect customs and advocate for safer alternatives.

Respecting diverse cultures is key to addressing sensitive issues such as FGM. By demonstrating genuine respect for people's cultural identities and actively seeking their insights, you can build trust and open them to your own perspectives. I recall a time in my own past when, in my eagerness to raise awareness about "harmful" cultural practices, I lacked the wisdom to approach them with respect and understanding. This stance alienated the communities I sought to help, including the young people I was advocating for. Now, prioritizing respect and understanding cultivates openness to learning and positive change, ultimately reducing harm.