Addressing the persistence of female genital mutilation: Current situation and prospects for effective intervention

With Unicef estimating that 230 million women and girls have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM) globally, the international human rights agenda sets the goal of eliminating the practice. Yet, despite a strengthened international legal framework and a gradual worldwide reduction, the prevalence rate remains high in some countries, particularly in Africa.
Based on operational research carried out in the Mandoul province of Chad, this article examines the socio-ethnic and economic determinants behind the continuing practice. Feedback from projects or programs aimed at fighting these practices highlights a number of pitfalls, helps to identify levers for action, and leads to recommendations for all those involved in the fight against FGM.
To implement effective strategies and drive lasting change, we need to adopt a contextualized, participatory approach, based on a detailed understanding of all the dimensions of the practice.