UN Warns 4.5 Million Girls at Risk of Female Genital Mutilation in 2026

On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), held on February 6, 2026, significant concerns have been raised regarding the ongoing risks faced by young girls. An estimated 4.5 million girls, many of whom are under the age of five, are positioned to undergo this harmful procedure this year alone. Additionally, over 230 million girls and women currently live with the lasting repercussions of FGM.

A joint statement was released by several high-level UN officials, including the UNFPA Executive Director, the Executive Director of UNICEF, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the Director-General of the WHO, among others. This coalition reaffirmed their dedication to eliminating FGM for every girl and woman at risk. Moreover, they pledged to ensure that those affected have access to appropriate and quality health services designed to address the impacts of this practice.

FGM is recognized as a serious violation of human rights that cannot be justified under any circumstances. It poses significant risks to the physical and mental health of girls and women and can result in severe lifelong complications. Notably, the annual costs associated with treating these complications are estimated to be around US$ 1.4 billion.

Efforts aimed at curbing FGM over the past 30 years have begun to yield positive results, as nearly two-thirds of individuals in countries where the practice is prevalent now support its cessation. Recent years have seen a noteworthy acceleration in progress, with half of the reductions in the prevalence of FGM achieved in the last decade, declining the rate of girls experiencing FGM from one in two to one in three. Continued momentum is deemed essential to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal target of entirely eradicating FGM by 2030.

Experts have identified effective strategies for ending the practice of FGM, which include health education, engagement with community and religious leaders, as well as parents and healthcare providers. The utilization of traditional and social media has also shown promise in raising awareness. Investment in community-led initiatives—especially those centered around grassroots and youth movements—is vital, alongside the enhancement of education through both formal channels and community-based efforts. Amplifying preventive messages by collaborating with trusted figures like health professionals is also critical. Furthermore, it is essential to provide comprehensive support to survivors, ensuring they have access to tailored healthcare, psychological assistance, and legal aid.

The financial implications of these endeavors illustrate that every dollar invested in the eradication of FGM can yield a tenfold return. Specifically, an investment of US$ 2.8 billion could prevent up to 20 million cases and, in turn, generate returns of approximately US$ 28 billion.

However, as the deadline for the 2030 target approaches, previous gains may be jeopardized due to the declining global support and investment. Recent budget cuts and reduced international funding for health, education, and child protection initiatives are tightening the resources available for FGM prevention and survivor support. Moreover, there has been a concerning rise in systematic resistance to efforts aimed at ending FGM, highlighted by arguments suggesting its acceptability when performed by healthcare professionals.

Without stable and reliable funding, there is a risk that community outreach initiatives will face reductions, frontline services will weaken, and previous progress may be reversed, putting millions more girls in jeopardy at a crucial point in the mission to eliminate FGM. As such, UN leaders today reaffirm their commitments and collaborative efforts with local and international partners, including survivors, to eradicate FGM once and for all.