Reimagining Anti-FGM Work 

Towards an intersectional, decolonial approach to female genital mutilation

How can we work to prevent female genital mutilation (FGM) without unintentionally causing other forms of harm?

Research and experiences from practice show that well-intentioned approaches to FGM can sometimes contribute to stigmatisation, racial profiling and negative experiences within healthcare and other services. At the same time, professionals across different sectors work within different responsibilities, policies, institutional frameworks and constraints. In the afternoon, we will then focus on creative methods for initiating conversations about FGM while continuing to reflect on our own practices.

During this symposium, we bring together professionals from different sectors, researchers, and women with lived and professional/community expertise to reflect on these tensions, explore how they manifest in the Belgian context, and think together about more intersectional, person-centred and decolonial approaches to FGM.

Program

09:00–09:30 | Registration & coffee

09:30–09:40 | Welcome

Decolonising FGM: Colonial legacies and contemporary practice

09:40–10:20 | Colonial histories and contemporary legacies of anti-FGM policy Natasha Carver (University of Bristol) & Hannelore Van Bavel (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)

10:20–10:40 | What does this look like in Belgium? Aminata Sidibé (GAMS)

10:40–11:25 | Panel discussion & audience Q&A Panelists: Natasha Carver, Hannelore Van Bavel, Aminata Sidibé, Huda Hajinur (Caafi Health Bristol), Aissatou Diallo (GAMS), Metasebia Joffe (GAMS) Moderator: Paulien Broens (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)

11:25–11:45 | Coffee break

11:45–12:25 | Small-group discussions Reflection and exchange across different areas of professional practice.

12:25–13:15 | Plenary discussion Bringing together perspectives, challenges and experiences across sectors.

13:15–14:00 | Lunch & networking

Creative methods for engaging with sensitive topics

14:00–15:00 | What can creative methods make possible? Natasha Carver, Hannelore Van Bavel, Luna Doppée (GAMS)

15:00–16:45 | Creative workshop: Reimagining practice A collective creative reflection on power, perspectives and possibilities for change.

16:45–17:00 | Closing reflections

Practical Information

Event in English 

• • Where : Amazonehuis, Brussels
  • When : Donderdag 29 oktober 2026 van 9u tot 17u
  • Want to sign up? Registration is required via this link