In a press release, the group indicated that it ‘stands firmly and unwaveringly in solidarity with The Gambia’ in its ongoing efforts to prohibit and combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) as encapsulated in the Women’s Amendment Act 2015.
“The recent discussions around the possibility of repealing the prohibition of FGM in The Gambia is a matter of great concern for our organization. FGM, a deeply rooted cultural practice, has caused immense suffering for countless women and girls across the globe.
The release added, “Our organization recognizes and respects the importance of cultural and religious beliefs, which hold a significant place in the lives of individuals and communities. However, it is imperative that these beliefs and traditions do not come at the expense of the welfare and well-being of women and girls in our society.”
The body, which is committed to achieving equality, democracy and sustainable development, labels FGM as a blatant violation of the basic human rights of women and girls, which it stated, infringes upon the rights to health, bodily integrity and freedom from torture to other inhuman and degrading treatment.
“FGM perpetuates and deepens the deeply entrenched gender inequalities by reinforcing harmful gender norms and practices. Also, the prohibition of FGM aligns with international commitments and conventions, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which call for an end to harmful practices and gender-based violence.
The group thus urges all to recognize that fact, further calling on all stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society organisations, religious leaders, and community members, to unite in support of the fight against FGM.
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