Together against FGM: More protection and support for affected women

On February 6th, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), representatives of NTFN eV participated in an important event in Hanover. The focus was on prevention and support for victims, organized by Baobab – zusammensein eV as part of the "Elikia" (meaning "hope") project.

Among the guests was Lower Saxony's Minister for Social Affairs, Dr. Andreas Philippi, who emphasized in his speech that FGM/C is a serious human rights violation and a crime. He called for more support for affected women and announced his intention to advocate for the inclusion of medical procedures to treat the consequences of FGM in the list of benefits covered by the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act. This would be an important step in facilitating access to necessary medical care for affected women. The close cooperation between Baobab and our organization, particularly regarding the psychological support of FGM survivors, was especially recognized at the event. Many of the women suffer not only from the physical consequences but also from the traumatic burden. This is where our professional and therapeutic expertise comes in, to help these women.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) remains a social reality in many countries, and women and girls affected by it also exist in Germany. Protecting and supporting them requires education, networking, and courageous political action. This event has once again demonstrated the importance of working together to combat these human rights violations. Together, we will continue to advocate for the rights and well-being of women affected by FGM.