Prevent FGM
If you have any fears that female genital cutting is in preparation for a young girl in your family or within the framework of your job in contact with children, contact us at 02 219 43 40 (or by email info@gams.be) to be listened to and advised on what steps to follow.
If you are a professional
There are several tools for professionals that can help you to assess the risk.
If you are a parent
The situation at risk the most common is a stay in the country of origin. Here are some tips on precautions for parents to take before departure.
Prepare the departure well
- Make contact with the specialised associations (GAMS Belgium, INTACT asbl) who will give you advice and documents that may help you in your approach.
- Seek support from people who can help you discuss with the other members of the family in Belgium.
- Look for allies in your country who will help you protect your daughter (national committee and local associations who fight against female genital mutilation).
- Have our child examined by a doctor and ask for a certificate «of the integrity of the external genitalia » before leaving.
- Sign a sworn declaration stating that you protect your daughter from female genital cutting and take this document with you when you travel.
- Ask for the written laws in the language of your country (passport STOP FGM).
On the spot
- Explain to the family your decision to not have your daughter cut.
- Remember that female genital mutilation is an offense punishable by Belgian law even if it is practiced elsewhere other than Belgium (show the passport STOP FGM).
- Ask for the help from the National Committee and local associations if necessary.
- Always stay close to your daughter during your visit (don’t leave them alone with another member of your family).
On your return
- On your return, go back to the doctor who examined your daughter before your departure so that they can certify that he or she is still intact.
