On the proposed repeal of the law banning female genital mutilation in The Gambia
B-9-2024-0233
on behalf of the S&D Group · Rapporteur: Pedro Marques, Hannes Heide
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The resolution deeply regrets the proposed repeal of the law banning female genital mutilation (FGM) in The Gambia, calling it a step backwards for women's and girls' rights.¶ It urges the Gambian parliament to reject the repeal, calls on the government to engage with international partners, and asks the Commission and EEAS to address FGM in political dialogue.¶¶¶ It also urges the Commission and member states to coordinate protection for female asylum seekers on FGM grounds.¶
Key points
- Deeply regrets the proposed repeal of the FGM ban in The Gambia, stressing it would be a step backwards and decriminalize gender-based violence.¶
- Urges the Gambian parliament to immediately reject the proposal and uphold the criminalisation of FGM.¶
- Calls on the Gambian government to engage with international partners, notably the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of FGM.¶
- Underlines that women's rights remain fragile and reiterates the importance of awareness-raising and community engagement, including with religious, traditional and community leaders.¶
- Recalls that community engagement requires full involvement of boys and men through national dialogue and education.¶
- Calls on the Commission and EEAS to address FGM with Gambian authorities in political and human rights dialogue, including psychological support for victims.¶
- Urges the Commission and member states to coordinate protection for female asylum seekers on FGM grounds, including guidance based on UNHCR Guidelines and training for asylum case workers.¶