The Djiboutian government is intensifying the fight against female genital mutilation (FGM), a harmful practice that compromises the health, dignity and fundamental rights of women and girls.
Djibouti is intensifying its national efforts to combat female genital mutilation (FGM). This initiative, part of a comprehensive strategy, aims to sustainably reduce the prevalence of these practices and guarantee the fundamental rights of women and girls, given the serious health, psychological, and social repercussions they cause.
“Female genital mutilation constitutes a serious violation of the fundamental rights of girls and women. It undermines their physical integrity, dignity, and health. Despite the sustained efforts of our government over the years, this practice unfortunately persists in certain communities and geographic areas. This calls upon us all and compels us to further strengthen our action.”
MOUNA OSMAN ADEN, Minister of Women and Family Affairs – Djibouti
Female genital mutilation can lead to serious medical complications, including infections, chronic pain, complications during childbirth, and lasting psychological trauma. According to the World Health Organization, more than 200 million girls and women worldwide are currently living with the consequences of female genital mutilation (FGM), while more than 3 million girls are at risk of undergoing it each year.
“The Republic of Djibouti has reaffirmed its commitment by adopting laws, public policies, and a national strategy aimed at preventing and combating FGM. We have a responsibility to guarantee the girls and women of our country a future based on dignity, health, and equality.”
MOUNA OSMAN ADEN, Minister of Women and Family Affairs – Djibouti
In response to this situation, Djibouti relies on a legal framework and public policies designed to prevent these practices and raise community awareness. The goal is to eliminate female genital mutilation by 2030, in accordance with international commitments related to the Sustainable Development Goals.
