An estimated 80 million girls and women in Asia have undergone some form of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), 35% of all cases globally. Governments, United Nations agencies, civil society organizations and regional networks1 in Southeast Asia are collaborating to end female genital mutilation/cutting in South-East Asia and support achievement of SDG 5.3 on elimination of all harmful practices.

Globally, an estimated 230 million women and girls have undergone FGM/C and about 4 million girls are subjected to the practice each year, 2 million before their fifth birthday. The largest share of the global burden is in Africa, with 144 million cases, followed by 80 million in Asia, and 6 million in the Middle East.

Female genital mutilation/cutting is recognized internationally as a violation of women and girls’ human rights, a form of discrimination against women and girls, and a harmful practice. The practice has no health benefits for women and girls and is associated with a wide range of health complications that can span a lifetime. All forms of FGM/C are harmful, and the risk of harm is even greater with more severe forms of FGM/C.

The Regional Accountability Framework to end FGM/C in Southeast Asia and its addendum for South Asia represent a landmark effort to unify all key stakeholders under a shared vision. By systematizing efforts through a synchronized plan and a collective results-tracking mechanism, UNFPA-UNICEF and partners are transforming individual actions into a cohesive movement to end FGM/C in Asia.

UNFPA is committed to a future where bodily autonomy and SRHR are guaranteed, and where every woman and girl is free from gender-based violence, FGM/C, and all harmful practices.

Download the full framework and the addendum for more information.