On the occasion of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, reaffirms Italy’s commitment to the elimination of this abhorrent practice, which gravely violates the dignity and rights of millions of women worldwide.
According to United Nations estimates, over 230 million women and girls around the world have been subjected to female genital mutilation, the majority of them before reaching the age of fifteen. It is further estimated that approximately 3 million women undergo this practice every year.
Thanks to the continuous efforts of Italian diplomacy and international cooperation, Italy has established itself over the years as one of the most active players in the fight against female genital mutilation, both within International Organisations and through bilateral dialogue with the countries most affected by this phenomenon.
Italy will strongly reaffirm its commitment to combating this practice during the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, which will take place in New York from 10 to 21 March. This session represents the most significant multilateral meeting dedicated to the protection of women’s rights and the promotion of gender equality.
Furthermore, the fight against female genital mutilation is an integral part of Italy’s campaign for election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term.
