Joint Statement from UN Leaders on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

In 2026 alone, approximately 4.5 million girls—many of them under five—face the threat of undergoing female genital mutilation (FGM). At present, more than 230 million girls and women live with the enduring impact of this harmful practice.

On this International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we renew our shared commitment to eliminate FGM completely. We stand united to protect every girl and woman from this practice, ensuring those affected receive vital and appropriate care and support services.

FGM is a breach of fundamental human rights and is indefensible. It endangers the physical and mental well-being of girls and women, leading to severe long-term health issues, with the global cost of medical treatment reaching about US$1.4 billion annually.

Efforts over the past 30 years to combat FGM are showing tangible results. In countries where FGM is widespread, nearly two-thirds of the population now supports its eradication. In the last decade, anti-FGM progress has gained speed, with the number of girls affected dropping from one in two to one in three. This momentum must be accelerated if we are to meet the global goal of ending FGM by 2030, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.

We have effective tools to drive change: educating communities about health, involving religious and local leaders, parents, and health professionals, and using both traditional and digital media. Community-led efforts, especially those spearheaded by grassroots groups and young people, must be supported. Strengthening both formal and informal education channels is essential. Trusted voices, including healthcare professionals, should be key in spreading prevention messages. Survivors must be at the heart of our response, with assured access to quality healthcare, psychosocial support, and legal aid tailored to each context.

Investing in the elimination of FGM brings significant benefits. With US$2.8 billion, we could prevent 20 million new cases and generate a return of US$28 billion—ten times the initial investment.

As we move closer to the 2030 deadline, past achievements are under serious threat due to decreasing global investment and weakening support. Reduced funding in health, education, and child protection is slowing down prevention and survivor support efforts. Meanwhile, troubling arguments advocating FGM when performed by medical professionals are undermining progress and endangering girls. Without consistent and adequate funding, outreach programs may shrink and essential frontline services could be weakened—potentially reversing years of hard-won progress and putting millions more girls at risk.

Today, we stand in solidarity—alongside local and international partners, including survivors—to renew and strengthen our pledge to permanently eradicate female genital mutilation.