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International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation Observed on6 February 2025.

Important Days | Dated: 07 Feb 2025

The United Nations (UN) observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) annually on February 6 to raise awareness and strengthen global efforts to eliminate FGM. The day serves as a platform for stakeholders to highlight progress, advocate for the abandonment of FGM, and protect girls and women from this harmful practice.

🎯 Key Highlights:

- The 6th of February 2025 marks the 14th observance of this UN-recognized day. The theme for the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM 2025 is: "Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End Female Genital Mutilation."
- Countries with the highest prevalence of FGM among girls aged 15 to 49 include Somalia (98%), Guinea (97%), and Djibouti (93%).

💡 Other Important Facts:

(i) On February 6, 2003, Stella Obasanjo, the First Lady of Nigeria and a prominent advocate against FGM, officially declared "Zero Tolerance for FGM" in Africa at a conference organized by the Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (IAC). The first observance of the day took place in 2003.
(ii) Following this declaration, February 6 was officially recognized by the UN Sub-Commission on Human Rights as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
(iii) On December 20, 2012, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted resolution A/RES/67/146, formally designating February 6 as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation to accelerate efforts to eliminate the practice worldwide.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

When is the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) observed annually?

Correct Answer: February 6

🚀 Quick Recap:

About United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

Executive Director (ED) : Dr. Natalia Kanem
Headquarters : New York