Awareness campaign
February 6 – International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
February 6 is an important date to remind us that female genital mutilation (FGM) is a serious violation of human rights, still affecting millions of girls and women around the world today, including in Belgium. February 6 marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation. This date refers to an official statement made in 2003 in Addis Ababa by Stella Obasanjo, then First Lady of Nigeria, calling for zero tolerance towards FGM. The same year, the United Nations established this international day to strengthen global mobilization against this practice.
Why take action against female genital mutilation?
On the occasion of this International Day of Zero Tolerance, GAMS Belgium aims to create a space for reflection, dialogue, and awareness around the realities experienced by affected women, the challenges of prevention, and the levers for change within communities. This day seeks to better understand the mechanisms that perpetuate FGM, highlight the voices committed to fighting these practices, and strengthen collective actions to prevent them.
Informing, exchanging, listening, and acting together are essential steps to reduce female genital mutilation. By participating in this day, you help raise awareness of these issues and send a clear message.
Our events
Around February 6, several events will take place in Brussels and Antwerp. Testimonials, discussion sessions, and awareness-raising activities will be on the agenda—join us for an engaging and meaningful experience.
February 6 2026
On the occasion of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, GAMS invites you to a morning of sharing and reflection on FGM within Arab and South and Southeast Asian communities living in Belgium. Register here!