Female genital mutilation (FGM) is an operation in which the female genital organs are injured or changed without any medical reason. It is a traumatic act for the victim and causes harm to the body of the female.
Let’s take a look at the history of the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation
Zero Tolerance Day was introduced on Feb. 6, 2003, at the instance when the first lady of Nigeria, Mrs. Stella Obasanjo, officially announced “Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation” in Africa during a conclave organized by the Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children, a non-governmental network headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
It has been declared a criminal offence and focuses on prosecuting those who commit the offence. Various Women’s Rights Organizations have been fighting against this harmful practice which is hurtful to the health and well-being of women and girls.
Observing the Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM
In 2014, a 17-year-old student, Fahma Mohamed created an online petition in which she alerted all to the dangers of FGM. The petition became one of the fastest-growing petitions and the government of the United Kingdom was forced to set up new guidelines and asked all teachers to become vigilant for FGM.
In previous years as well, various acts have been passed by the US and other developed nations to safeguard Women and Girls against FGM. The Girls’ Protection Act was introduced and federal law has made prosecution possible for inflicting FGM on Women and Girls.
Hazards of Female Genital Mutation
Female Genital Mutilation if carried out has Long term and Short term ill health effects inside the female body. These are as follows:
Short Term
Ill Health effects include severe pain, excessive bleeding, genital tissue swelling, urination problems and psychological problems which may include trauma.
Long Term
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