UNICEF has launched new report about female genital mutilation/cutting that looks at data from 29 countries over the past 20 years. Overall, support for the practice is declining - even in countries where FGM/C is widespread, such as Egypt and Sudan.
On Thursday, February 16, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will host and deliver remarks at an event commemorating the Ninth Anniversary of the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) at the Department of State. The event will be streamed live on DipNote at 1:00 p.m. EST.
Following the Secretary, Representative Joe Crowley (NY-07) will also deliver remarks. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Melanne Verveer will then moderate a panel discussion with leading experts and activists dedicated to the global effort to eradicate FGM/C and to raise awareness of its negative consequences on women, girls, families, and societies. The discussion will highlight the importance of fostering community-based approaches and engaging religious leaders and the Diaspora community to encourage abandonment of this harmful traditional practice.
Related Content: Secretary Clinton’s Statement on International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting | U.S. Supports Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation