Why we need a zero tolerance approach to female genital mutilation – Essential Kids – February 2014


Today, 6th February, is an International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation. It is a day that is observed every year to raise awareness of a practice that is harmful to girls and women around the world.

FGM, also known as female circumcision or cutting, is the deliberate mutilation of the female genitalia. It involves the partial or total removal of a girl’s external genitals (the clitoris and labia). In its most extreme form, girls are subjected to the removal of the clitoris and labia, and the sewing up of their vagina, leaving only a small opening for urine and menstrual blood. It is a practice that is widely condemned.

 

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