MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2024/2699(RSP))
On the proposed repeal of the law banning female genital mutilation in The Gambia
B-9-2024-0228
on behalf of The Left Group · Rapporteur: Miguel Urbán Crespo, Anabela Rodrigues
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This resolution expresses deep concern about a bill in The Gambia that would repeal the 2015 ban on female genital mutilation, calling it a severe human rights violation and a setback in the global fight against gender-based violence.¶ It urges the Gambian Parliament and authorities to abandon the bill, comply with international standards, strengthen prevention efforts, and stand in solidarity with survivors.¶¶¶
Key points
- Notes that the number of FGM victims worldwide has increased to 230 million, with over 144 million in Africa, and 76% of Gambian women and girls aged 15-49 have undergone FGM.¶
- States that FGM is a violation of human rights, reflects inequality between sexes, and constitutes extreme discrimination against girls and women, mostly carried out on young girls.¶
- Highlights that FGM leads to serious health problems and costs health systems US$ 1.4 billion per year.¶
- Recalls that the 2015 ban on FGM in The Gambia was a significant milestone for protecting women and girls.¶
- Notes that a bill proposed on 18 March 2024 would repeal the 2015 ban, making The Gambia the first country to reverse legal protections against FGM.¶
- Urges the Gambian Parliament and authorities to abandon the bill and respect international instruments protecting women and girls.¶
- Calls on the government to strengthen enforcement, engage communities including men and boys, strengthen public health services, and expand opportunities for women and girls.¶
- Expresses solidarity with survivors and those working to end FGM.¶