24
Apr
2024
Watch
The proposed repeal of the law banning female genital mutilation in The Gambia
Mr President, thank you very much. In 2015, The Gambia banned female genital mutilation. If The Gambia now decides to lift the ban, it would be the first country in the world to withdraw such a decision. The situation of women and girls in The Gambia is extremely serious. 76% of women and girls aged 15 to 49 have undergone genital mutilation. This is a serious violation of human rights. The health consequences are well documented and very difficult. A lot of people die. Those who survive will suffer for life. Infections, infertility and birth complications are among the most common complications. I very much call on the Gambian Parliament to immediately reject the proposal. Every girl deserves the right to her own body and her own life. All girls should grow up free from violence and oppression. Female genital mutilation is a medieval custom that best belongs on history's rubbish heap. Instead, do as we do here in the EU when we decide today on legislation against violence against women and girls.