Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful
practice affecting over 200 million women worldwide. This practice, devoid of
medical benefits, leads to severe health consequences. FGM is a form of
gender-based violence deeply ingrained in harmful norms that control and
restrict women's freedom. This denial of full human rights, including bodily
integrity, freedom from torture, mental health, sexual health, and reproductive
rights, affects around 600,000 women in Europe already, with 180,000 more at
immediate risk. These alarming numbers are set to escalate due to shifting
demographics.
FGM elimination is a critical objective under Gender Equality Goal of the
Sustainable Development Agenda (SDG 5.3). Despite some progress, the current pace suggests we are
centuries away from achieving this global objective.
In its decade of existence, the End FGM
European Network has proudly prioritized FGM elimination within the EU and in
development. Yet, the urgency of current realities demands immediate and
intensified efforts to create a world free from the FGM and Gender Based
Violence for all.
If you
resonate with the urgency of eliminating this harmful practice, as a candidate
for the 2024 European Elections, join us in making these goals a reality!
In the next European mandate, I commit to:
1.
Work towards EU gender equality goals, including
ending gender-based violence and FGM.
2.
Ensure FGM-affected communities' voices shape policies
that concern them.
3.
Promote accurate narratives about FGM to counter
stigmatization.
4.
Advocate for additional funding to civil society,
prioritizing grassroots efforts.
5.
Prioritize professional training in relevant policies
and EU-funded programs.
6.
Promote an intersectional and feminist approach to
eliminate gender-based violence in EU policies.