On the proposed repeal of the law banning female genital mutilation in The Gambia
B-9-2024-0243
on behalf of the ECR Group · Rapporteur: Anna Fotyga, Karol Karski, Angel Dzhambazki, Ryszard Czarnecki, Andżelika Anna Możdżanowska, Adam Bielan, Witold Jan Waszczykowski, Bogdan Rzońca, Elżbieta Rafalska, Assita Kanko, Eugen Jurzyca
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This resolution addresses the proposed repeal of the law banning female genital mutilation (FGM) in The Gambia. It reiterates Parliament's commitment to eliminate FGM worldwide and urges states to adopt and enforce legislation prohibiting it.¶ It calls on The Gambia's government to uphold its obligations under international human rights law, maintain the ban, and strengthen efforts to prevent and address FGM through enforcement, community interventions, health services, and opportunities for women and girls.¶ It also calls on the Commission, the EEAS, and member states to step up cooperation with third countries to encourage laws banning FGM, support law enforcement, and prioritize FGM in external human rights policy.¶
Key points
- FGM includes all procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to female genital organs for non-medical purposes and can have serious health effects.¶
- FGM is internationally recognized as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.¶
- UN 2030 Agenda Goal 5 identifies FGM as a harmful practice to be eliminated by 2030.¶
- The Gambia passed a law banning FGM in 2015, but its parliament is moving to overturn the ban, currently under review by a parliamentary committee.¶
- Repeal of the 2015 Act would reverse gains in protecting women's and girls' rights; concerns exist that laws on early and forced marriage could follow.¶
- Parliament reiterates its commitment to help eliminate FGM worldwide and urges states to adopt and enforce legislation prohibiting FGM.¶
- Calls on The Gambia's government to uphold international human rights law, maintain the ban, and strengthen efforts through enforcement, community interventions with men and boys, health services, and expanding opportunities for women and girls.¶
- Calls on the Commission, EEAS, and member states to cooperate with third countries to encourage FGM bans, support law enforcement, and prioritize FGM in external human rights policy.¶