Fatoumata

FATOUMATA*

“I am 13 years old and I live in Europe. I go to school but I cannot concentrate these days. My parents are talking about going home to Mali for the holidays. My friends have told me that there will be a party for me and I will have to undergo the cutting. But I know the pain that some other girls go through every month because of this practice. I do not want to suffer this pain and I am afraid because I don’t know who to talk to. My parents are following my grandmother’s instructions and they are planning the trip. I love them but I don’t know why they are making me go through this pain. No one at school will understand my problem...how will I escape?”

*Fictional story based on facts

WHAT CAN THE EUROPEAN UNION DO?

While legislation shows a strong stand against FGM, strong preventative measures are also essential. To prevent FGM and protect young girls, the communities and relevant professionals (such as teachers) must be engaged in awareness raising activities. EU level cooperation amongst police, social services, health services and school administrations can help to shape a common EU approach to child protection policies.
 

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Join us in our demand to the EU to incorporate FGM in protection and prevention measures to address violence against women and children.

Show your support for END FGM European Campaign’s call for an inclusive EU-wide strategy to bring FGM to an end.
 

ACT NOW: Sign the petition!