Zero tolerance for female genital mutilation
MEPs are set to urge the EU to step up its efforts to eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM) in a resolution to be debated on Tuesday afternoon and voted on on Wednesday.
To mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) on Tuesday 6 February, MEPs will quiz the EU Commission on the progress of its strategy ‘‘towards the elimination of FGM’’ and action taken to date.
In a resolution to be put to a vote on Wedensday, MEPs are likely to call on the Commission and member states to include FGM prevention measures in all policy areas (including health, social work, education, justice, etc.), to step up cross-sector cooperation and to guarantee a strong preventive action in refugee camps.
MEPs are also set to voice concern that, although criminal law protects women from FGM in all member states, only a handful of cases are brought to justice and that training schemes are especially needed for those responsible for FMG detection, investigation and prosecution.
Background
According to the World Health Organisation, at least 200 million women and girls around the world are living with the harmful consequences of FGM. In the EU, the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) reports victims in at least 13 member states (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Spain, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden and the UK).
FGM comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is recognised internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.
The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals call for an end to FGM by 2030, under Goal 5 on Gender Equality.
Procedure Code: 2017/2936(RSP)
Debate: Tuesday, 6 February
Vote: Wednesday, 7 February
Procedure: Question for oral answer to the Commission, with resolution
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