Gambia Moves To Repeal Ban On Female Genital Mutilation

The debate over repealing the ban, initially imposed in 2015 by former President Yahya Jammeh, has reignited in recent months, reaching a critical juncture as lawmakers voted 42 to four to advance a bill seeking to lift the prohibition. The bill, introduced by legislator Almameh Gibba, argues for the protection of cultural and religious traditions, asserting that the ban infringes on citizens' rights in the predominantly Muslim country.

However, this move has divided the nation, with activists and rights organizations vehemently opposing it. Jaha Marie Dukureh, founder of Safe Hands for Girls, an NGO dedicated to ending FGM, described the practice as "child abuse" and emphasized the enduring physical and psychological trauma experienced by its victims. She cautioned against succumbing to pressures from religious groups and stressed the importance of upholding the ban to safeguard women's rights.

The potential repeal of the ban has stirred intense debates both within Gambia and internationally.

The proposed repeal has drawn condemnation from various quarters, including human rights organizations and the international community. Amnesty International described the move as a "dangerous precedent" that could undermine progress in women's rights and tarnish Gambia's human rights record. The United States has also expressed support for activists opposing the repeal, emphasizing the importance of listening to survivors' voices and protecting women's rights.

What is FGM?

UNICEF defines FGM as the partial or total removal of the female external genitalia for non-medical reasons, a practice prevalent in many African and Asian countries. Despite efforts to combat it, the number of women and girls affected by FGM globally has risen to alarming levels, with over 200 million victims reported, according to recent UNICEF data.

Historically, FGM has been justified by notions of purity and control over women's sexuality. While it was first recognized as a human rights violation in 1993, progress has been slow, with enforcement of anti-FGM laws often lacking.

In Gambia, where FGM was banned in 2015, the recent push to repeal the law has reignited debate. Proponents of the repeal argue for the protection of cultural and religious practices, while opponents, including activists and rights groups, warn of the detrimental effects on women's rights and well-being.

The consequences of FGM are profound, ranging from physical health complications such as excessive bleeding and infections to long-term psychological trauma. Despite legal prohibitions, the practice persists due to deep-seated beliefs and societal pressures.

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