At least 200 million girls and women living today have suffered genital mutilation – one of the most inhumane acts of gender-based violence committed in the world. On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we reaffirm our commitment to end this violation of human rights so that the tens of millions of girls still at risk of FGM by 2030. Given Since female genital mutilation is a form of gender-based violence, it cannot be dealt with apart from other forms of violence against women and girls or other harmful practices such as child and forced marriage. To end female genital mutilation we must combat the root causes of gender inequality and work for the social and economic empowerment of women. In 2015, world leaders massively supported the inclusion of the elimination of female genital mutilation in the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It is an achievable goal, and we must act now to translate that political commitment into tangible action. At the national level, new policies and laws are required to protect the right of girls and women to live free from violence and discrimination. Governments of those countries where female genital mutilation is widespread should also develop national action plans to eradicate the practice.

Female genital mutilation is an issue that concerns women and men who believe in equality, dignity and justice for all human beings, regardless of gender, race, religion or ethnic identity. It should not be seen as the problem of a particular group or culture, be it African, Muslim or Christian. Female genital mutilation is practiced in many cultures. It represents a human tragedy and should not be used to pit Africans against non-Africans, religious groups against others, or women against men. More than 200 million girls and women in 30 countries have been subject to female genital mutilation (FGM), according to the UN children's agency. The UN is working to eliminate the practice. 

(Translated from Spanish)