FGM In Egypt

Protests against FGM

Today in Egypt, female genital mutilation (FGM) remains one of the most persistent challenges that young girls and women face in the country. Although the government of Egypt has established bans and awareness has increased, almost 87% of women between the ages of 15 and 49 have undergone FGM. In recent years rates have declined; however, it still continues to play a huge role in the futures of young women. 

The reasons for choosing FGM originate with the belief that it preserves a girl’s purity and will improve her chances of marriage. It is a part of tradition and social expectation, and oftentimes by choosing to not follow FGM, families can face judgement and social exclusion. 

FGM provides absolutely zero health benefits and can lead to several physical and mental long-term complications such as infections, childbirth difficulties, and trauma. For young girls, it is an act that takes place without consent and at an age before they can even understand what FGM means. 

In recent times, Egypt has taken several steps towards eliminating FGM by criminalising the practice and by launching awareness campaigns. But true change and progress mean that ideologies, especially for mothers who fear backlash, must shift. Putting a stop to FGM isn’t only a health policy. It’s needed to protect a girl’s agency and bodily autonomy.