International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation

February 6 was the United Nations’ International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation. Although these practices are mostly happening in other parts of the world, the mission to eliminate female genital mutilation is also relevant for Europe, as the United Nations’ statement explains: “Although primarily concentrated in 30 countries in Africa and the Middle East, female genital mutilation is a universal problem and is also practiced in some countries in Asia and Latin America. Female genital mutilation continues to persist amongst immigrant populations living in Western Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand.”

Intrusive and abusive physical practices go against human rights. Each individual human being should have decisive power over their body, despite traditions, despite cultural norms.