Press Releases: Observance of International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting

Press Releases: Observance of International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting
Press Statement

Robert Palladino
Deputy Spokesperson

Washington, DC

February 6, 2019

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Gender-based violence against women and girls impedes equality and undermines peace, prosperity, and security for millions of women and girls around the world. The harmful practice of female genital mutilation, in particular, undermines the human rights of women and girls by damaging their health, limiting women’s economic opportunities and girls’ access to education, and increasing the likelihood of early and forced marriage.

Ending this practice requires a survivor-led response and leadership from policymakers, health practitioners, and faith-based communities. The United States is proud to partner with such stakeholders, and in 2018 the Department of State contributed more than $5 million to help end the heinous practice.

On this Day of Zero Tolerance, the United States stands with women and girls throughout the world and renews the call to end this abhorrent violence and to create a safer, healthier, and more prosperous future for all women and girls.

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Published February 06, 2019 at 03:05PM
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