End FGM EU submits report to GREVIO on EU implementation of the Istanbul Convention
The End FGM European Network has submitted a report to GREVIO as part of the baseline evaluation of the European Union’s implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, known as the Istanbul Convention.
The report provides an evidence-based analysis of the EU’s current policy and legislative framework on female genital mutilation, with a particular focus on implementation gaps, accountability challenges, and inconsistencies across Member States.
While the EU has taken important legislative steps, including the adoption of the Directive on combating violence against women and domestic violence, significant gaps remain in implementation, coordination, and accountability.
Legislative alignment at EU level does not automatically translate into effective implementation at national level. Without binding enforcement mechanisms and clear accountability frameworks, existing obligations under the Istanbul Convention risk remaining only partially fulfilled.
Key challenges identified:
The report highlights several structural gaps that continue to hinder progress towards the elimination of FGM in Europe.
A major concern is the lack of harmonised and up to date data collection across the EU. Without reliable and comparable data on prevalence, risk, and protection measures, it remains difficult to design effective policies or assess their impact.
We also point out in the report the limitations in the participation of civil society organisations. While consultations exist, they are often not systematic, inclusive, or meaningful, limiting the contribution of grassroots expertise and community voices.
In addition, the absence of a coordinated EU wide approach to prevention, including education and awareness raising, continues to weaken efforts to address the root causes of FGM.
Protection, support, and access to rights:
Despite the criminalisation of FGM across Member States, access to specialised support services remains uneven. Ensuring adequate funding, availability, and quality of these services is essential to uphold the rights of women and girls.
The report also raises concerns regarding migration and asylum policies, highlighting persistent gaps in the identification and protection of survivors. The lack of systematic, gender sensitive approaches risks leaving vulnerable individuals without adequate support and protection.
Key recommendations:
To ensure the effective elimination of female genital mutilation in Europe, End FGM EU calls on the EU to:
- Establish a harmonised EU wide data collection system on FGM
- Strengthen monitoring and accountability mechanisms
- Ensure meaningful and inclusive participation of civil society
- Invest in prevention through education and training
- Guarantee access to specialised, well-funded support services
- Ensure migration and asylum policies fully protect survivors and those at risk
The GREVIO evaluation represents a critical opportunity to move from commitments to concrete action. End FGM EU remains committed to working with European institutions, Member States, and civil society partners to ensure that all women and girls can live free from violence and harmful practices.
