Ending FGM by 2030 - is that realistic?

The goal of gender equality is the fifth SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals for 2030. Among other things, this means eliminating FGM worldwide by 2030.

According to UNFPA estimates, 4.3 million girls are at risk of female genital mutilation this year. This number is expected to rise to 4.6 million by 2030 as conflict, climate change, rising poverty and inequality hinder efforts to change gender and social norms that underpin this harmful practice.
Female genital mutilation (FGM) violates the rights of women and girls and limits their future opportunities in health, education and income. But we know that change is possible.

It is crucial to change gender and social norms that promote FGM. Men and boys are powerful allies in this effort.

According to the study, there is significant resistance to FGM from men and boys. In Ethiopia, for example - a country with one of the highest FGM rates in the world - male resistance to the practice is 87 percent according to a recent UNICEF analysis.

They are increasingly questioning the power relations in their families and communities and supporting women and girls as agents of change.

Education is the key here.

To the article by UNICEF