“Liberia Takes Bold Stand Against Female Genital Mutilation on International Day of Zero Tolerance”

MONROVIA, LIBERIA – As Liberia joins the world in observing the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Gender Minister Hon. Gbeme Horace Kollie has made a passionate call for urgent action to eradicate the harmful practice, stressing that the time to act is now.

Speaking at a high-profile event under the global theme “Her Voice, Her Future” and the national theme “Her Voice, Her Future: Let’s Act Now by Ending FGM and Preserving Our Heritage,” Minister Kollie emphasized the devastating health and psychological effects of FGM, describing it as a gross violation of human rights that robs young girls of their dignity and future.

“FGM is not just a cultural practice; it is a public health crisis. It causes life-threatening infections, excessive bleeding, complications during childbirth, and long-term trauma,” Minister Kollie said. “We must stand together to protect our girls and ensure they grow up in a safe environment.”

Liberia has made significant strides in addressing FGM, including a three-year moratorium issued by the National Council of Chiefs and Elders of Liberia (NACCEL) and the government’s complete ban on the practice.

However, Minister Kollie expressed deep concern over reports that FGM has resurfaced across all 15 counties, a disturbing trend that contradicts previous commitments.

“It was reported that FGM was still being practiced in 11 out of Liberia’s 15 counties. However, recent developments indicate that this harmful practice is now occurring in all 15 counties,” she revealed. “This is deeply alarming and calls for stronger legislative action.”

Minister Kollie stressed the urgent need for the enactment of a comprehensive Anti-FGM law to permanently criminalize the practice, urging lawmakers, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations to intensify efforts.

“The absence of a strong legal framework allows violations to persist. We must work together government, lawmakers, traditional leaders, and advocacy groups to pass legislation that will ensure the permanent abolition of FGM,” she asserted.

She also commended progressive traditional leaders who have embraced alternative rites of passage, allowing heritage and cultural practices to continue without endangering the lives of young girls.

UN Women Backs Liberia’s Fight Against FGM

Speaking on behalf of UN Women, Liberia Country Representative Madam Comfort Lamptey condemned FGM as a horrific form of gender-based violence affecting over 230 million women and girls globally.

“Ending FGM requires a united global effort. Governments, grassroots organizations, and survivors must work together to dismantle harmful traditions and protect the next generation,” Madam Lamptey emphasized.

She urged Liberia to take bold steps in outlawing FGM by 2030 in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

As part of its renewed commitment, the Ministry of Gender, in collaboration with stakeholders, will soon convene a High-Level Stakeholder Dialogue with members of the legislature and other partners to review the status of the Anti-FGM Bill. Additionally, a nationwide outreach campaign will be launched to assess the impact of the recently expired moratorium and push for its renewal.

“The three-year moratorium ended February 5, 2025. We must now take immediate steps to evaluate its impact, address challenges, and renew our efforts for a permanent legislative solution,” Minister Kollie announced.

The event concluded with a strong message of unity, urging all Liberians to play a role in eliminating FGM and ensuring a future where girls can grow up free from harm.

The observance of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM in Liberia serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect women and girls from harmful practices. With strengthened collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and international partners, Liberia remains committed to ending FGM once and for all.