The world is observing the International Day of Zero for female genital mutilation (FGM) under the theme, “Her Voice. Her Future: Investing in Survivors – Led movements to End Female Genital Mutilation.” UNFPA and UNICEF are making a joint call for stepping up support to survivors of FGM, by prioritizing investments in survivor-led initiatives that are centered around girl’s empowerment, access to essential sexual and reproductive health (SRH), legal, education, mental health, and psychosocial support services.

FGM is a human rights violation that limits access to opportunities and resources towards the realization of the rights of girls and women to basic services, including health, education, safety, and reaching their full potential. Ending FGM is a national priority in Ethiopia, with an action plan to end the practice by 2030. For FGM to be eliminated in the country, there should be continued investment and leveraging of the expertise and local knowledge of the 25 million girls and women who are survivors of FGM for prevention, mitigation, and response work.