IMAP Statement on Preventing Female Genital Mutilation

Female genital mutilation (FGM) involves partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury for cultural or other non-medical reasons. It is a human rights violation, a form of child abuse and an extreme form of gender-based violence (GBV) which affects more than 230 million people globally (UNFPA, 2025). FGM is practiced in more than 90 countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East, with significant mortality and morbidity as a direct consequence. Studies have  shown that, FGM is a leading cause of  death of girls and young women in countries where it is practiced (Ghosh, Flowe, & Rockey, 2023).

Despite being a cultural practice in certain countries, FGM has no health benefits and can result in long-term and irreversible physical and mental health consequences. The practice is illegal in over 80 countries, either through domestic legislation that specifically prohibits the practice of female genital mutilation within its borders, prohibits it to its expatriate citizens or allows it to be prosecuted through other laws (World Bank, 2025).
 

This statement was prepared by the International Medical Advisory Panel (IMAP) and approved in February 2026.
 

This statement provides guidance to Member Associations and Collaborative Partners across the Federation on delivering holistic programming to prevent, respond to and mitigate the impact of FGM. The statement provides an update on FGM prevalence and emerging issues including medicalisation, and specific considerations related to humanitarian settings, migration, and displacement. The statement synthesises the latest evidence on effective prevention strategies and survivor-centred service delivery models to guide IPPF affiliates response. Finally, the statement advocates for the elimination of all forms of FGM, including when performed by medically qualified health workers, and supports clinicians’ adherence to human rights principles and professional ethical standards. It supports stakeholders working towards ending FGM, including health providers, policymakers, civil society organisations, and international organisations and funding agencies.

 

You can read the statement in full below.