It is estimated that globally at least 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone some form of female genital mutilation (FMG). Girls aged 14 and younger represent 44 million of those who have been cut. These procedures involved altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons and are recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.
The practice of FMG reflects deep-rooted inequality between the sexes and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against women and girls. It also violates their rights to health, security and physical integrity, their right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and their right to life when the procedure results in death.
UN Secretary General , Antonio Guterres has said: “With the dignity, health and well-being of millions of girls at stake, there is no time to waste. Together, we can and must end this harmful practice.”
As a community of women committed to taking decisive action for justice, Brigidine Sisters stand in solidarity with all demanding an end to female genital mutilation (FGM).
May we speak out and use our voices and our networks to raise awareness about this injustice for girls and women and may we work and pray for those who have been mutilated in this way or who are most vulnerable to this inhumane violation.
