Millions of girls still face risk of female genital mutilation
UNFPA has raised concerns about the ongoing threat of female genital mutilation (FGM) to millions of girls worldwide. The organisation estimates that 4.5 million girls could be at risk in 2026. FGM is recognised as a violation of human rights and persists in many countries despite efforts to end the practice. The issue remains deeply rooted due to persistent myths and social norms.
What we know
- UNFPA estimates 4.5 million girls are at risk of FGM in 2026.
- Around 230 million girls and women globally have already undergone FGM.
- FGM is reported in 94 countries, with Africa bearing the largest burden.
- In 2025, Islamic scholars in Djibouti, Eritrea, and Somalia issued a national fatwa stating there are no religious grounds to justify FGM.
- Data shows a decline in FGM rates in about a third of affected countries over the last three decades.
