How many women in Italy are victims of female genital mutilation?

Over 95,000 women in Italy are victims of female genital mutilation.

What is being proposed to combat FGM in Europe?

Associations are proposing the establishment of an International Anti-FGM Observatory to monitor the issue, collect data, and coordinate prevention efforts.

Why is FGM considered a serious issue in Italy?

FGM is considered serious due to its rising prevalence linked to migrants, the significant number of victims, and the weak, uneven prevention measures, often leading to late detection of harm.

Home / Health / FGM Rises in Europe: 95,000 Victims in Italy

FGM Rises in Europe: 95,000 Victims in Italy

6 Feb

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Summary

Over 95,000 women in Italy are victims of female genital mutilation.
The rise is linked to migrants from high-risk regions in Europe.
Associations propose an International Anti-FGM Observatory for monitoring.

FGM Rises in Europe: 95,000 Victims in Italy

In Italy, over 95,000 women are victims of female genital mutilation (FGM), according to recent reports from various associations. This phenomenon is increasingly observed in Europe, with a strong link to migrants arriving from high-risk regions, presenting considerable challenges to health, social, and child protection services.

To address this escalating issue, a network of associations is proposing the establishment of an International Anti-FGM Observatory. This body would be dedicated to monitoring FGM globally, compiling data, analyzing its severe clinical and psychological consequences, and coordinating vital prevention and education programs.

Activists emphasize that FGM is a form of systematic violence causing permanent harm, not a cultural tradition. Despite existing protective measures, prevention efforts in Italy remain weak and inconsistently applied, with cases often detected late during healthcare access for pregnancy or childbirth complications. Associations are calling for an urgent qualitative leap in health and social policies, advocating for early intervention, enhanced training for healthcare workers, and stronger collaboration between various services and judicial authorities.