Liberia Marks International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

On 6 February 2025, Liberia observed the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls across the nation. The event, held at the Invincible Park, Monrovia was organized by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, bringing together government officials, civil society organizations, and international partners to reflect on progress and reinforce efforts to end FGM.

Addressing a Persistent Challenge

Despite significant advancements, FGM remains present in Liberia, especially in rural communities, with over 50% of women and girls aged 15-49 having undergone the procedure. The practice persists in 11 out of 15 counties, particularly affecting girls aged 5 to 14.

Speaking during the observance of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Gbeme Horace-Kollie, stated that: “FGM is not only a violation of human rights but also a grave public health concern; its psychosocial and reproductive risks are well documented. Currently, in Liberia, we are seeing a resurgence of the practice: we cannot allow this to continue, we need to ensure a safer future for our women and girls. The celebration of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is particularly significant today as we join the celebrations for the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration. This reminds us that progress is only possible if we recalibrate our efforts to protect our women and girls.”

Key Achievements in the Fight Against FGM

Liberia has made notable progress in tackling FGM through policy reforms, community interventions, and economic support for former practitioners. Major milestones include:

• Policy advancements: The adoption of policy statements in 2019 and 2022, suspending FGM for specified periods.
• Nationwide ban: A proclamation on 6 February 2023 by former National Chairman Chief Zanzan Karwor outlawing the practice across Liberia.
• Legislature developments: An Anti-FGM Bill was drafted and is presently pending submission to the National Legislature.
• Community-led initiatives: Traditional rites and the closure of bush schools in five counties, with plans to extend the initiative to the remaining seven FGM-practicing counties.
• Economic alternatives: Training and livelihood support for 800 traditional practitioners in sustainable businesses, including climate-smart agriculture, tailoring, soap-making, and tie-dye production.
• Educational and cultural centers: The construction of four vocational and heritage centers, under the Spotlight Initiative, in Grand Cape Mount, Montserrado, Nimba, and Lofa Counties, providing women and girls with empowerment opportunities in Climate Smart Agriculture Programs, Business Development training, skills training and cultural education. 

Rep. Moima Briggs Mensah, Representative of District #6 Bong County, who served as Guest Speaker, emphasized: “I stand here today as the proponent of the Anti-FGM legislation; I stand here today as a survivor of FGM. We were taught as children that this harmful practice was a rite of passage and a prerequisite for being a good wife. One key takeaway of today’s event is that we have the tools to stop this practice. We need to protect our girls, we need to give them the choice to live freely of this practice.” 

A Collaborative Pathway Forward

Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Liberia Country Representative, speaking on behalf of Christine Umutoni, UN Resident Coordinator, read the message of the UN Secretary General Antonion Guterres on FGM Day 2025: “Female genital mutilation is a horrific act of gender-based violence. As one of the most brutal manifestations of gender inequality, FGM inflicts profound, lifelong physical and mental harm, and carries life-threatening health risks.” She also quoted the Secretary-General as saying: “Eradicating this vicious human rights violation is urgent, and it is possible: for ALL women and girls, everywhere.”

The commemoration served as a powerful reminder of Liberia's ongoing commitment to eradicating FGM. As awareness grows and initiatives expand, stakeholders remain dedicated to ensuring a future where every girl can live free from harm and with full access to her rights and opportunities.