The United Nations Population Fund warned that 4.5 million girls face the risk of female genital mutilation this year, urging accelerated global efforts to eradicate the harmful practice that persists in over 50 countries despite legal bans in many.
The projection, detailed in UNFPA’s annual report on violence against women and girls, highlights a surge in cases across Africa, the Middle East and Asia, where cultural norms and poverty continue to fuel the tradition.
“Every girl and woman deserves to live free from the trauma of FGM. Yet, millions remain at risk, with devastating consequences for their health, well-being and rights,” said UNFPA Executive Director Natalia Kanem.
She added: “We must act now to end this violation once and for all, through community-led education, stronger enforcement of laws and investment in gender equality.”
The agency estimates that without intensified interventions, up to 4.5 million procedures could occur by year’s end, with 3.5 million in Africa alone, where Nigeria accounts for over 20 percent of global cases.
UNFPA called for increased funding to support survivor care, awareness campaigns and legal reforms, noting that FGM—often performed on girls under 15—leads to severe complications including infections, infertility and childbirth risks.
The report praised progress in countries like Kenya and Egypt, where convictions have risen, but stressed that zero tolerance requires collective action from governments, communities and international partners.
