FGM in Diaspora Communities
Female Genital Mutilation is a harmful practice that has affected over 200 million girls and women worldwide, As more people migrate around the world, FGM is becoming an issue not only in the countries where it’s traditionally practiced but also in diaspora communities. This expansion poses new challenges in addressing FGM and protecting girls at risk.
FGM is often seen as a cultural or religious obligation in communities where it has been practiced for generations. Even after moving to countries where FGM is illegal, some families continue to have it performed on their daughters, either by traveling to their home country or finding underground practitioners. [1]
Challenges in Enforcing Anti-FGM Laws
One of the biggest challenges in combating FGM in diaspora communities is properly enforcing laws that prohibit FGM. In the UK, the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 made it illegal to perform FGM domestically or arrange for it to be carried out abroad. However, enforcing these laws remains difficult because FGM often takes place in secrecy. [2]
Victims of FGM may not report it for fear of being ostracized by their communities. Additionally, previous negative experiences with authorities contribute to a lack of trust, which further discourages individuals from seeking help. [3] Research indicates that victims of honor-based violence and abuse in England and Wales often face significant barriers when reporting incidents to the police. Women report that when they attempt to report gender-based violence to the police they are faced with questions like “Why didn’t you say no?” [3] [4]
To address these challenges, gender, and honor-based violence must be taken more seriously. Authorities need to build trust with communities so that women feel safe and supported in coming forward to report violations of their autonomy.
Solutions and Strategies
One effective approach to addressing FGM is to promote organizations that work with diaspora communities to educate families about the legal, health, and psychological risks associated with FGM. While not directly targeting diaspora communities, programs like Kenya’s Alternative Rite of Passage Programs [5] demonstrate different ways girls can go through a rite of passage instead of going through FGM.
These programs demonstrate that addressing FGM with cultural sensitivity—by respecting and engaging with cultural beliefs while promoting the abandonment of harmful practices—can be highly effective. Additionally, survivor-led advocacy is also crucial to tackling this issue, as survivors from within these communities can speak to their shared experiences.
How You Can Help
Ending FGM worldwide requires collective action and awareness. You can support by educating yourself and amplifying the voices of survivors and activists working to create change. Explore resources and survivor stories through organizations like the Orchid Project [6], FORWARD [7], or Equality Now [8] to access resources, survivor stories, and ways to contribute.
Consider volunteering with local advocacy groups, donating to organizations tackling FGM, or sharing educational materials within your networks to raise awareness.
Lucy Swakei, a Maasai woman, has dedicated over 13 years to reducing FGM in her community. Now, she needs your help to expand her life-changing work to other villages. A small donation can help Lucy reach more families and protect more girls from FGM. Donate now.
Sources
Orchid Project [6]
FORWARD [7]
Equality Now [8]
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