The Gambia’s Decision to Uphold FGM Ban: A Milestone for Women’s Rights

By Uzman Unis Bah

Banjul, The Gambia — In a landmark decision that underscores The Gambia’s commitment to human rights and gender equality, the National Assembly voted today to uphold the ban on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The move has been hailed as a significant victory for the health, well-being, and rights of girls and women across the nation.

In a joint statement, leaders from several prominent international organizations, including UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, UN Women, and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, lauded the decision. "We commend The Gambia’s decision to uphold the ban on FGM, reaffirming its commitments to human rights, gender equality, and protecting the health and well-being of girls and women," the statement read.

FGM, which involves the cutting or removal of external female genitalia, is a deeply rooted cultural practice primarily inflicted on infants and young girls. The procedure can lead to severe immediate and long-term physical and psychological damage, including infections, complications in childbirth, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The ban on FGM was initially codified in the Women's (Amendment) Act of 2015, a landmark legislative effort to combat gender inequality and protect women’s rights. The act represents the culmination of years of advocacy, community engagement, and education aimed at eradicating this harmful practice. The Gambia's decision to uphold this ban is crucial in maintaining these legal protections and aligning with international commitments, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

International leaders emphasized the essential role of grassroots initiatives in this ongoing struggle. "We commend the tireless efforts of survivors, activists, civil society organizations, and faith-based groups working to end FGM," the joint statement continued. "Upholding the ban supports these initiatives, which are pivotal in ending all forms of violence against girls and women."

Despite the legislative success, challenges remain. Currently, more than 73% of Gambian girls and women aged 15 to 49 have undergone FGM, many before their fifth birthday. This statistic highlights the need for continued and concerted efforts to eliminate the practice entirely.

The joint statement also pointed to the global context, where assaults on women’s and girls’ rights in various countries threaten to reverse hard-won gains. Legislative bans, while fundamental, are insufficient alone to end FGM. The international community stresses the importance of sustained advocacy, community engagement, and the involvement of traditional, political, and religious leaders.

Survivors of FGM require comprehensive medical and psychological care to address the long-term harm caused by the procedure. "Supporting survivors remains as urgent as ever," the statement emphasized.

As The Gambia moves forward, international organizations reaffirm their commitment to supporting the government, civil society, and local communities in their fight against FGM. "Together, we must not rest until we ensure that all girls and women can live free from violence and harmful practices and that their rights, bodily integrity, and dignity are upheld," the statement concluded.

This decision marks a significant step towards a safer and healthier future for girls and women in The Gambia and serves as an encouraging example for the global community in the ongoing battle against gender-based violence and discrimination.