Context:
Female genital mutilation (FGM) continues to affect millions of girls and women in Ethiopia, Somalia and Sudan. It violates fundamental human rights and often leads to lifelong health and social consequences. Despite legal advances and growing public debate, the practice is firmly embedded in traditional norms and often goes hand in hand with other forms of gender-based violence (GBV). At the same time, many regions lack functioning protection mechanisms, access to qualified care and offers for prevention and education. Civil society initiatives are already having an impact, but they need stronger political and institutional support to achieve sustainable change.
Objective:
In Ethiopia, Somalia and Sudan, regional, national and local actors and organisations are working effectively to change social norms in order to reduce female genital mutilation and gender-based violence.
Approach:
The regional project is committed to ensuring that girls and women in Ethiopia, Somalia and Sudan can grow up free of female genital mutilation (FGM) and gender-based violence (GBV). The focus is on changing social norms: through dialogue, education and joint action in the communities. Not only women and girls are empowered, but men and boys are also involved – because protection against violence and gender equality are tasks for society as a whole. The project strengthens state and civil society structures so that protection, prevention and support services are permanently anchored. This creates safe, just and dignified living conditions in which women and girls can shape their future in a self-determined way.