This project supports 25 grassroots groups in 18 countries working to end female genital mutilation (FGM), a human rights violation that can have devastating consequences, including death.
The World Health Organziation estimates that 130-140 milllion women and girls have been subjected to FGM. Two million girls every year (6,000 per day) are at risk. FGM can have lifelong health implications that may include chronic infection, psychological trauma, and severe pain during urination, menstruation, sexual intercourse and childbirth. Some girls die from the cutting, usually as a result of bleeding or infection. Used to control women's sexuality, FGM denies women equality.
The FGM Fund mobilizes financial, technical and political support to raise awareness about FGM and work for legal protection. Activities include: alternative rites of passage, workshops, media outreach, advocating for laws, and peer education.
The program will support the efforts of 25 grassroots groups that have the potential to affect millions of girls and women. The work will positively impact women's health and economics as FGM can lead to early marriage and an abrupt end to schooling.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).