Zero Tolerance for FGM

“This day is a rallying cry for action, a moment to shatter the silence, and a pledge to ensure that no girl endures the trauma that so many of us have faced.”

Dr Leyla Hussein, on what The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) means to her not only as an activist, but as a survivor.

Over 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone female genital mutilation. The UK is supporting grassroots organisations and activists who are leading change from within their communities to unite to end FGM.

Dr Leyla Hussein OBE, Director of Advocacy Africa Led Movement

“I was subjected to this violence as a child, and the path to healing is lifelong. Around the world, survivors, activists, and communities are standing together with one message: 'No more'. We are witnessing progress—laws are changing, conversations are expanding, and survivors’ voices are leading the fight.”

Sema Gornall, CEO of The Vavengers and human rights activist

“Growing up at the intersection of Gender-Based Violence, poverty and conflict, I understand the value of collective action. I believe protecting and safeguarding women and girls against any form of harm or poverty should be everyone’s concern and survivors shouldn’t be left alone in the fight against violence.”

Janet Fyle, Professional Policy Advisor at the Royal College of Midwives

“As a clinician, I know that without targeted health interventions and psychological support, survivors will continue to suffer the long-term effects of FGM. My hope is that one day, FGM will be contextualised within a broader women’s health framework and that communities where FGM is practised will recognise the value of women within their society and say—never again.”

Fatou Baldeh, CEO and Founder of Women In Liberation & Leadership

“As a survivor of FGM, I see Zero Tolerance Day as a reminder to the world that nothing justifies endangering the health and lives of 230 million girls who are at risk of FGM annually. But it is also a day to celebrate the progress made, as the likelihood of young girls being cut in societies that practice FGM has reduced by over 30% today compared to three decades ago. So, on this day, and every day, we must collectively Unite to End FGM and step up the pace to eradicate the practice by 2030, as envisioned in the United Nations SDG 5.”

Naana Otoo-Oyortey, Executive Director at ForwardUK

“FGM remains a challenge for attaining gender equality and empowerment of women and girls. Cultural integration often collides with traditional beliefs: and diaspora communities often struggle with the complexity of maintaining their cultural identity, social and national laws in host countries. This tension makes awareness-raising and education harder, because resistance often stems from deeply entrenched traditional beliefs and the fear of losing traditional values and identities.”

Sarian Karim, survivor and activist

“For me, Zero Tolerance Day is a time to reflect on our collective efforts to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting worldwide. It serves as an opportunity for all those involved in the fight against FGM/C to celebrate progress, raise awareness, and advocate for its complete abandonment.”

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