European Union is including Assita Kanko’s resolution on female circumcision in its gender strategy

The European Commission is including Assita Kanko’s resolution on female circumcision in its strategy for equality between men and women. With this, MEP Assita Kanko has scored a new victory in her battle against female genital mutilation. “The fight is far from over, but the Commission’s decision is already a step in the right direction and it motivates me to keep this issue on the agenda.”

Not something that only happens in far-off countries

Globally, every year three million girls run the risk of being circumcised. Genital mutilation also still happens in Europe, with an estimated 180,000 girls at risk. “Female genital mutilation is not something that only happens in far-off countries. In Belgium alone, up to a quarter of girls originating from countries where this practice takes place run the risk of this horrific act. That means thousands of girls.”

Broad European support

At the start of February, Assita Kanko submitted a resolution to the European Parliament for a European strategy to combat genital mutilation. That resolution was approved with broad support. “The Commission will take additional measures to combat female genital mutilation and all other forms of gender-related violence. Specifically, this is about effective prevention, where education is the most important aspect. The EU will also make recommendations for strengthening public services, for prevention and support measures, and better access to the justice system for victims and potential victims.”