Policy Brief on Cross-Border FGM – UNFPA ESARO

by Dame Diongue

After reading “Policy Brief on Cross-Border FGM,”.

I want to share the three most important points I learned and my own thoughts.

First, I learned that Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) continues to happen across borders in Africa even when it is banned in some countries. The report showed that when laws are made in one country, people sometimes travel secretly to another nearby country to continue the practice. This means that ending FGM is not just a national issue, it requires regional cooperation between countries, border officials, and community leaders. It reminded me that harmful traditions don’t stop just because of one country’s law; it takes a joint effort to change both minds and systems.

Second, I found it important that the report stressed the role of community awareness and education. It explained that most girls are cut because their families believe it is the right thing or a cultural duty. The brief encouraged involving traditional and religious leaders, health workers, and schools in changing these beliefs. I agree with this point because no law can succeed without understanding and trust within the community. Real change starts when people know the harm being done and choose to stop it themselves.

Third, I was struck by how the report called for protecting girls and women who cross borders to escape FGM. Many of them face shame, rejection, or even violence. The author suggested better data collection, community programs, and cross-border cooperation between police and child protection agencies. It made me think about how brave some girls must be to run away from such danger just to save their own lives.

My thoughts: I fully agree with the authors. FGM is a serious human rights violation, and there is no excuse for it in today’s world. As a humanist, I believe that culture should never be used to harm people. Traditions can evolve when we put human wellbeing first. I feel strongly that governments in Africa should not only pass laws but also invest in education and support for victims and families. Ending FGM is not only about stopping the knife, it is about healing minds and creating safer futures for girls.

This essay made me reflect deeply. It showed me that protecting women and girls is everyone’s responsibility, regardless of religion or culture. Humanism calls us to act out of compassion and reason, and this issue is a perfect example of where both are needed most.

Thank you for sharing this reading. It opened my eyes and strengthened my belief that change begins with empathy and courage.