February 6
Zero Tolerance
International Day of Zero Tolerance: a global call against female genital mutilation
Every year, February 6th marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a global initiative aimed at raising awareness, mobilizing action, and working towards ending this practice that affects millions of girls and women worldwide. This day, declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003, serves as a reminder of the urgency to protect the fundamental rights of girls and women and to put an end to a harmful tradition that persists globally.
The significance of the Day
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM aims to raise public awareness about the devastating physical and psychological consequences of this practice, while advocating for concrete measures towards the total elimination of FGM. It is a crucial opportunity for organizations, activists, governments, and individuals to come together, share information, and promote tangible actions towards eradicating this human rights violation.
The Global Challenge
FGM represents a persistent global challenge. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 200 million women and girls have undergone FGM worldwide, with nearly 3 million at risk each year. These practices, often rooted in cultural and social norms, are detrimental to the physical and mental health of women, violating their fundamental rights to dignity, security, and health.
Towards a Future without FGM
The International Day of Zero Tolerance is a key towards a future without female genital mutilation. As voices continue to condemn this human rights violation, it becomes imperative for governments, institutions, and individuals to work together to end this practice once and for all. Every action counts in the fight against FGM, and it is together that we can build a world where every women and girl can live free from all forms of violence and discrimination and fully enjoy their fundamental human rights.
GAMS Belgium in action
Every year, GAMS Belgium actively engages in the International Day. The organization plays a crucial role in raising awareness, organizing events and advocating for policies and concrete measures towards the eradication of this harmful practice.
2019
GAMS Belgium’s “Together with Girls” campaign
In a resolute effort to end FGM, GAMS Belgium embarked on a powerful campaign titled “Together with Girls”. This article provides an overview of this initiative that goes beyond awareness-raising to effect real change.
2019
Beyond the Veil: Screening “The Cut” to explore FGM
Immerse yourself in a poignant cinematic exploration of FGM. This documentary sheds light on the complex realities of this harmful practice.
2021 – Webinar
Excision : quels défis pour les femmes concernées en Belgique ?
On January 22, 2021, GAMS Belgium initiated a crucial conversation through its webinar “Excision: What challenges for Affected Women in Belgium”.
Let’s delve into this in-depth discussion that highlights the specific challenges faced by women affected by FGM in Belgium. This webinar offers insights into the complex issues surrounding this harmful practice in the Belgian context, while emphasizing the importance of educational dialogues to raise awareness and address the specific needs of affected women.
Explore with us the nuances of this issue, as well as the solutions proposed during this engaging webinar.
2022
#MeetYourClit Campaign
From the giant clitoris displayed in Brussels to a webinar highlighting this often overlooked organ, GAMS Belgium is charting a bold path to promote understanding, encourage dialogue, and contribute to the elimination of FGM.
Together, these initiatives use the symbolic power of the clitoris to educate, raise awareness, and mobilize the public, thus challenging the stigma surrounding FGM.
2023
Prevent and Protect Symposium
On February 6, 2023, GAMS Belgium organized a significant event: the “Prevent and Protect” symposium. This initiative, in addition to serving as an essential platform for discussion and reflection on the prevention of female genital mutilation (FGM), was also an opportunity to pay tribute to the founder of GAMS Belgium, Khadidiatou Diallo.
Let’s delve into the details of this event that brought together experts, human rights advocates, and community members to discuss FGM prevention, while celebrating the lasting impact of the founder of GAMS Belgium in the fight against this practice.