How to put an end to female genital mutilation (FGM)? With political will, which is at the centre of achieving zero tolerance to FGM, say the Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (IAC), the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Geneva Department of Institutions (DI). To follow up on the event organized last year at The House of Parliaments, the four organizations will hold another interactive panel on Friday 6 February, on the occasion of the International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM, at the Centre International de Conférences de Genève (CICG).
Between 100 million and 140 million women - mostly in 28 African countries and others living as immigrants in Australia, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and the USA - have experienced genital mutilation. This ancient practice, which, contrary to popular belief, is not encouraged by any religion, exposes these young girls and women to irreversible health risks, especially with regard to their reproductive health, and jeopardizes their life and that of their unborn children.
The interactive panel, scheduled to take place between 9.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. at the CICG (Rooms 5-6), will be moderated by journalist Catherine Fiankan. The event will be open by Ms. Maria Roth-Bernasconi, a member of the Swiss Parliament, and will examine national frameworks and action plans to end FGM, as well as ways to put FGM on the political and public agenda.
The question of ensuring implementation of legislation will be addressed by the IPU Secretary General, Mr. Anders B. Johnsson. Ms. Berhane Ras-Work, IAC Executive Director will elaborate on the question of changing social attitudes and practices, while the questions related to FGM among the immigrant populations in Europe and in particular Geneva will be developed by Ms. Fabienne Bugnon, Director General at the Geneva Department of Institutions. Finally, Ms. Silvia Lopez-Ekra, IOM Gender Officer, will explore the possibilities of building partnerships. A press point and light lunch will follow
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