Gambia lawmakers debate overturning landmark anti-FGM ban | CNN
Gambia debates reversing ban on female genital mutilation (FGM).
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Today, Gambia’s parliament debated whether to reverse a law prohibiting female genital mutilation (FGM) after pressure from religious groups. The debate sparked protests as lawmakers considered decriminalizing the practice. The decision was postponed for further review by a parliamentary committee. The Deputy Speaker supported maintaining the ban, emphasizing the protection of women and girls from violence. The country outlawed FGM in 2015, with penalties including fines and jail time. Some Islamic groups have advocated for repealing the ban, considering FGM a virtuous Islamic practice. Opposition to the repeal comes from various quarters, including human rights organizations and prominent figures in Gambia. Amnesty International criticized the potential repeal, calling it regressive for women’s rights. The debate has raised concerns about prioritizing cultural practices over human rights principles. Data shows a high prevalence of FGM in Gambia, with a majority of women experiencing it at a young age. Globally, millions of women have undergone FGM, mainly in Africa and Asia.