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World FGM Map

Interactive Map

This map contains information about the prevalence rates and research on FGM in various countries across the world. Click each colour of the key to reveal global prevalence!

Update

We have added in the school holidays and term times in various countries. The school holidays within the country may be the time girls are at higher risk, and may be different to UK holidays.

Belgium

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 17.575

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays for Autumn (Oct/Nov), Christmas, Carnival (Feb/March), Easter, and Summer

Reference: Estimation de la prévalence des filles et femmes ayant subi ou à risque de subir une mutilation génitale féminine vivant en Belgique (2018)

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Burkina Faso

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 9% 15-49yrs: 56% (DHS, 2021)

Most common type: 2

Common ages: 0-9yrs Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: All

Terminology: ' 'Excision' (French, excision)

Regional information: Widespread across country (though, prevalence is higher in centre-east and south west)

Local law: Banned in 1996

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in December-January (2 weeks), and March-April (1/2 weeks).

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/burkina-faso/

Additional References (General):

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Bulgaria

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 31.0

Local Law: No specified law/can be criminalised under Criminal Code

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Main holidays in October (1 month), Dec/Jan (1 week), April (1 week), Summer- June/July to mid September

Reference: Bulgaria Gender Research Foundation (2005)

General References:

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Benin

Prevalence (%): 15-49yrs: 9%, 15-18yrs: 2.4%, (MICS 2014)

Most common type: 1, 2

Common ages: 0-9yrs, Medium age: 9yrs

Practicing groups: Peulh, Bariba, Lokpa, Yoa

Terminology: ' 'Excision' (French, excision)

Regional information: Highest prevalence in the north: Alibori, Borgou & Donga

Local law: Banned in 2003

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/benin/, https://data.unicef.org/wp-content/uploads/cp/fgm/FGM_BEN.pdf

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Russia

Prevalence (%): Unknown

Most common type: 1,2,4

Common ages: Usually <3

Practicing groups: Muslim communities

Terminology:

Regional information: Republic of Dagestan (North Caucasus) Botlikh, Tsuntin Bezhta plot (almost universal) Tsumadinsky Tlyaratinsky district ( approx 50%)

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Year starts in December and is divided into 4 semesters by 1/2 week holidays - which occur in November, January and March.

Reference: Antonova & Siradzhudinova (2016)

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Luxembourg

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 379.0

Local Law: No specified law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays for Summer (2 months- June/July), Autumn (1 week Oct/Nov), Christmas, Winter/carnival (February), Easter, and Pentecost (1 week May/june)

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Liberia

Prevalence (%): 15-49yrs: 31.8% (DHS 2019-20) 15-18yrs: 31.1% (DHS, 2013)

Most common type: 2

Common ages: Medium age: 14yrs

Practicing groups: Kpelle, Bassa, Grebo, Gio, Mano, Kru, Lorma, Kissi & Gola. Those entering Sande societies

Terminology:

Regional information: Prevalence highest in North western and North central regions

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/liberia/

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Romania

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 79.0

Local Law: No specified law/can be criminalised under Criminal law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in Christmas (2 weeks), February (1 week), Spring (2 weeks), and summer (June-September)

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Guinea-Bissau

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 30% 15-49yrs: 52.1% (MICS, 2018-19)

Most common type: 1, 2

Common ages: 0-14yrs Medium age: 9yrs

Practicing groups: Muslim women

Terminology: 'Fanado' (Creole,circumcision)

Regional information: Prevalence higher in East & South east

Local law: Banned in 2011

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): nan

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/guinea-bissau/

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Greece

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 15.249

Local Law: Convincing someone to undergo FGM is criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in Summer, Christmas, Easter (no set exact dates confirmed)

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Georgia

Prevalence (%): Unknown

Most common type: 1 (Black dot at tip of clitoris)

Common ages: Childhood

Practicing groups: Avar community (predominantly Muslim)

Terminology:

Regional information: Eastern Georgia, Tivi, Saruso & Chantliskure in Kvareli district

Local law: Criminalised

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: IWPR,2016.

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United Kingdom

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 137.000

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Academic year September-July divided into 6 by 1/2 week long breaks in October, Dec-Jan, February, April, May and a 6 week summer break (late July-September)

Reference: Prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation in England and Wales: National and local estimates (2015)

General References:

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Guinea

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 39% 15-49yrs: 94.5% (DHS 2018)

Most common type: 2

Common ages: 0-14yrs, Medium age: 9yrs

Practicing groups: Fula/ Peul, Malinke, Soussou,Guerze, Toma,Nalou

Terminology: 'Excsision'/'female circumcision' (English). 'L'excision' (French,excision).

Regional information: Prevalence widespread (although around 10% lower in N’Zérékoré)

Local law: Banned in 1996

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/guinea/

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Ethiopia

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 46% 15-49yrs: 72.6% (DHS 2019-2020)

Most common type: 1, 2

Common ages: 0-9yrs, Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: Sarahule, Bambara, Fula

Terminology: 'Niaka' (Mandinka, to cut/weed clean). 'Kuyungo' (Mandinka, The affair'/name given to the shed built for initiates). 'Musolula Karoola' (Mandinka, The womens side/That which concerns women).

Regional information: Highest prevalence in Mansakonko, Brikama & Basse regions

Local law: Banned in 2015

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in October and March (1 week each) and June-August (6 weeks).

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/the-gambia/

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Kuwait

Prevalence (%): 38% (Rachana Chibber, Eyad El-Saleh & Jihad el Harmi, 2011)

Most common type: 1,3

Common ages: 4-12yrs

Practicing groups: Somali, Kisii, Maasai, Kalenjin, Mercu/ Embu, Taita & Taveta

Terminology:

Regional information: Highest in eastern regions (Type III)

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in June-August (2 months), December-January (2 weeks).

Reference: https://www.edarabia.com/school-holidays-kuwait/

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Ghana

Prevalence (%): 15-49yrs: 2.4% (MICS 2017-2018

Most common type: 2

Common ages: 9yrs

Practicing groups: Kussasi, Frafra, Kassena, Nankanne, Bussauri, Moshie, Manpruise, Kantasi, Walas,Grunchie,Dargati,Lobi

Terminology: 'Female circumcision' (English).

Regional information: Prevalence highest in North

Local law: Banned in 1994 (amended in 2007)

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): 3 terms 12-15 weeks each. Seperated by holidays in Dec-Jan (2 weeks), April-May (3 weeks), and summer (1 month, July-September).

Reference: The Ghana Education Service (GES)

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Oman

Prevalence (%): 53% (UNICEF, 2006) 95,5% (Al-Dakhiliya province)

Most common type: 1,2

Common ages: Infancy

Practicing groups: Unknown

Terminology: Khifad' (Arabic, circumcision) Badhr (Arabic)

Regional information: Higher in Dhofar region

Local law: Illegal to be practiced by health facilities

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Divided into two semesters: Early September-mid-January, and semester runs from early February to late May.

Reference: Thabet & Al-Kharousi 2018 survey

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Jordan

Prevalence (%): 7.4% (FROM 1 SMALL STUDY)

Most common type: 1

Common ages: 8-12yrs

Practicing groups: Jordanian tribe

Terminology:

Regional information: Reported in Rahma, Aqaba

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Two terms, September-January and February-June. Holidays in summer (3 months), and winter (2/3 weeks)

Reference: Shaeer & Shaeer 2013 (online study)

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Croatia

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 112.0

Local Law: Criminalised in 2011

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in Summer (late June-early September),Christmas and Easter (2 weeks each), as well as 1 week in February and a few days in October

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

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Hungary

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 396.0

Local Law: No specified law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in summer (mid-June-September), Oct-Nov (1 week), Christmas (2 weeks), April (1 week)

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Portugal

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 6.576

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in summer (July-mid september), Christmas (2 weeks), and Easter (2 weeks in April)

Reference: Mutilação Genital Feminina: prevalências, dinâmicas socioculturais e recomendações para a sua eliminação (2015)

General References:

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Peru

Prevalence (%): Unknown

Most common type: 4 (introcision)

Common ages: Pre puberty

Practicing groups: Conibos tribe

Terminology: Curacion' (Embera, cure/ healing/ treatment)

Regional information: Unknown

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Academic calendar split into two semesters; march-july and August-December

Reference: ONCHR 1995

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Pakistan

Prevalence (%): Dawoodi Bohra 46+: 92% 18-25: 68% 75-85% overall (Sahiyo Survey)

Most common type: 1,4

Common ages: 6/7 (Dawoodi Bohra)

Practicing groups: Dawoodi Bohra, Sheedis

Terminology: Khatna' (urdu, circumcision), 'Khafz'

Regional information: Southern Sindh province

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): April-March with a two month summer and two week winter break (holidays may vary due to weather conditions)

Reference: https://endfgmcasia.org/fgm-c-in-asia/pakistan.html, https://www.fgmcri.org/country/pakistan/

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Poland

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 207.0

Local Law: No specified law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Terms split with 3 holidays; 1 week in December, 1 week in April, and summer- June-August

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Estonia

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 8.0

Local Law: No specified law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in October (1 week), Christmas (2 weeks), Feb-March (1 week), April (1 week), Summer Mid-June-September

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Egypt

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 14% 15-49yrs: 87.2% 15-18yrs: 69.6% (DHS, 2015)

Most common type: 1, 2

Common ages: 5-14yrs Medium age: 10yrs

Practicing groups: All

Terminology: 'Khitan'/'Thara'/'Khifad' (Arabic, Circumcision/To Clean or purify/To lower.

Regional information: Widespread across country, Highest in Upper Egypt and areas surrounding the Nile river: 92.1%

Local law: Criminalised in 2008

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Year runs from September-June with breaks for Christmas, Easter and shorter public holidays.

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/egypt/

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South Africa

Prevalence: Unknown

Local Law: No specified legislation

Terminology:

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): School runs from January-December and seperated into quarters with breaks every 2-4 months (Winter,Spring,Summer and autumn breaks- Southern hemisphere)

References: Manabe, 2010. SABC, 2019. Mswela, 2009.

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Angola

Prevalence (%): Unknown

Most common type: Unknown

Common ages: Unknown

Practicing groups: Kwanhama or Kwanyama ethnic group

Terminology:

Regional information: Kwanhama, South Angola

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in Ocotber (2 weeks)...

Reference:

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Ethiopia

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 16% 15-49yrs: 65.2% 15-18yrs: 47.1% (DHS, 2016)

Most common type: 1, 2, 3

Common ages: 0-9yrs Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: Oromo,Amhara,Somali,Tigray

Terminology: 'Megrez' (Amharic, Circumcison/cutting). 'Absum' (Harrari, name giving ritual)

Regional information: Highest prevalence in eastern regions, Afar (Type III, 8d old), Dire Dawa (75.3%), Somali (type III)

Local law: Banned in 2004

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in October and March (1 week each) and June-August (6 weeks).

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/ethiopia/

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Zimbabwe

Prevalence: Unknown

Local Law: No specific legislation

Terminology: 'Kudhonza' (Shona,elongation of the labia minora). 'Sunnah' (Arabic, religious tradition or obligation).

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region):Holidays in April-May (5 weeks), August (3 weeks), and December

References: The Herald (2016)-News reports, https://publicholidays.africa/zimbabwe/school-holidays/2023-dates/

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Spain

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 15.907

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Main holidays are: July-August (2 months), December-January (2 weeks), and easter/spring holidays in Feb/March/April (1 week each)

Reference: La Mutilación Genital Femenina en España (2020)

General References:

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Eritrea

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 33% 15-49yrs: 83% 15-18yrs: 68.8% (DHS, 2010)

Most common type: 1, 3

Common ages: 0-5yrs Most commonly 1st year of life

Practicing groups: All

Terminology: 'Mekhnisab' (Tigregna, Circumcision/Cutting) 'Grazate' (Amharic, Circumcision)

Regional information: Widespread across country (Highest in central North)

Local law: Criminalised in 2007

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/eritrea/

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Mali

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 73% 15-49yrs: 88.6% (DHS 2018) 15-18yrs: 90.3% (DHS 2012-2013)

Most common type: 1,2

Common ages: 0-4yrs Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: Mande, Peul, Votaic, Songhai, Tuareg, Moor

Terminology: 'Selidijili'/'Sunna'/'Bolokoli' (French/Bambara, ritual purity or ablution/religious tradition or obligation/to wash your hands).

Regional information: Higher prevalence in Southern Mali (South West)

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): nan

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/mali/

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Malawi

Prevalence: Unknown

Local Law: No specified law

Terminology: Initiation/rite of passage (English).

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): School year September-July, each term 15 weeks each- holidays in March and June

References: The Nation, 2013; The Chronicle 2006; The U.S state department 2007

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Mauritania

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 45% 15-49yrs: 64% (DHS 2019-21) 15-18yrs: 65.9% (MICS, 2011)

Most common type: 1,2

Common ages: 0-4yrs Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: All

Terminology: nan

Regional information: Highest prevalence in South and South eastern regions

Local law: Banned in 2005

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Different for French schools. Holidays in Christmas, Winter, and summer.

Reference: https://www.bank-holidays.com/country/mauritania-islamic-republic-of_114.htm

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Uganda

Prevalence (%): 15-49yrs: 0.3% (DHS 2016) 15-18yrs: 1% (DHS, 2011)

Most common type: 1,2,4

Common ages: Medium age: 7yrs

Practicing groups: Sabiny, Pokot & Tepeth, Baganda

Terminology: 'Kuketwa'/'Tohara kwa wanawake' (Sawhili,female circumcision/circumcision of women).

Regional information: Highest prevalence in the Karamoja region.

Local law: Banned in 2010

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in May (3 weeks) ,late August- mid September (3 weeks) and early December-February (7 weeks)

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/uganda/, https://publicholidays.africa/uganda/school-holidays/2024-dates/

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Malaysia

Prevalence (%): 93% of ethnic Malay women and girls. (Orchid Project, 2024)

Most common type: 1, 4

Common ages: Infancy Usually 40d after birth

Practicing groups: Malay,Orang Asli,Sabah,Sarawak

Terminology: 'Wajib' (Malay, any religious duty commanded by God 'Sunnah' (Malay, religious tradition/obligation)

Regional information: Provinces on Western island most affected

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): 2 semesters: January-May (1 week break in March)

Reference: Malaysia | FGM/C Research Initiative (fgmcri.org) https://endfgmcasia.org/fgm-c-in-asia/malaysia.html

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France

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 125.000

Local Law: No specified law/can be criminalised under Criminal Code

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Christmas,spring and summer holidays as well as holidays in October (2 weeks), May (1 week), and February (2 weeks)

Reference: Estimate of adult women with female genital mutilation living in France (2019)

General References:

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Finland

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 10.254

Local Law: No specified law/can be criminalised under Criminal Code

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in summer (early June- mid August), end of September (1 week), Christmas (2 weeks), and 1 week February or March

Reference: Action plan for the prevention of female genital mutilation (2019)

General References:

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Netherlands

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 41.000

Local Law: No specified law/can be criminalised under Criminal Code

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): 4 terms, holidays in autumn,christmas,spring, and summer - as well as 1/2 weeks in May

Reference: Vrouwelijke Genitale Verminking Omvang en risico in Nederland (2019)

General References:

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Norway

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 17.058

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in June-August (2 months), Christmas (2 weeks), Easter (1 week), as well as a few days each in Feb-March and October

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Niger

Prevalence (%): 15-49yrs: 2% 15-18yrs: 1.4% (DHA, 2012)

Most common type: 1,2

Common ages: 0-4yrs Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: Unknown

Terminology: 'Kaciyar mata' (Hausa,female circumcision)

Regional information: Highest prevalence in Tillaberi (South Western region)

Local law: Banned in 2003

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/niger/

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Nigeria

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 8% 15-49yrs: 15% (MICS, 2021)

Most common type: 2

Common ages: Most likely <5yrs Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: Ekoi,Igbo,Yoruba,Hausa,Fulani,Ibibio,Ijaw

Terminology: 'Ibi/Ugwu' (Igbo, the act of cutting). Didabe fun omobirin/ila kiko fun omobirin (Yoruba). Isa aru (Ibo,bathing before delivery). 'Sunna' (Mandingo,religious tradition or obligation).

Regional information: Prevalence highest South West

Local law: Criminalised in some states

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): January-December- divided into 3 semesters with a month break in between each.

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/nigeria/

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Cote d'ivoire

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 10% 15-49yrs: 37%, 15-18yrs: (MICS 2016)

Most common type: 1, 2

Common ages: 0-9yrs, Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: Yokuba, Gere, We, Guru, Djulu, Malenke

Terminology: ' 'L'excision'/'Excision' (French/English)

Regional information: Prevalence highest in North & West

Local law: Banned in 1998

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Year runs from September-July. Holidays in October-November (1 week), December-January (3 weeks), Easter (2 weeks), and summer (July-September, 7/8 weeks).

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/cote-divoire/, https://publicholidays.africa/ivory-coast/school-holidays/

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Switzerland

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 14.700

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): 4 holiday periods; summer (July/August) , autumn (October), winter (December/January) , spring (April/May)

Reference: Mutilations génitales féminines : recommandations pratiques, Obstetrica 11/2019

General References:

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Colombia

Prevalence (%): Unknown

Most common type: 1, 2

Common ages: Infancy

Practicing groups: Embera-Chami tribe, Nasa Indigenous tribe

Terminology: 'Curacion' (Embera, cure/healing/ treatment)

Regional information: Highest in west

Local law: Legal (if not resulting in death)

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Two academic calendars; main one is January-November with holidays in Easter,June-July, and October.

Reference: Henao (2011), UNFPA (2011)

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Cameroon

Prevalence (%): 15-49yrs: 1% 15-18yrs: 0.4% (DHS, 2004)

Most common type: 1, 2

Common ages: 0-14yrs Medium age: 9yrs

Practicing groups: Fulbe & Arab

Terminology:

Regional information: Highest prevalence in North

Local law: Criminalised in 2016

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Year runs from September-July. Holidays in December-January (2 weeks), Easter (April, 2 weeks), and summer (August-September, 9 weeks)

Reference: fgmcri.org/country/cameroon/

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Canada

Prevalence: 50.000

Local Law: Illegal

Terminology:

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Possible holidays include; Summer (June-September), Christmas, February, Easter/Spring (March/April)

References: End FGM Canada Network https://school-holidays.info/en/canada-school-holidays-2022-by-province-and-territory/

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Central African Republik

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 1% 15-49yrs: 21.6% (MICS, 2018-19)

Most common type: 1, 2

Common ages: 5-14yrs Medium age: 14yrs

Practicing groups: Sara, Arab and Mayo-Kebbi

Terminology: 'Ganza' (French/Sango)

Regional information: Higher prevalence in Central CAR, though practiced in all groups

Local law: Banned in 1966 (amended in 1996)- also related laws in 2006 and 2010

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/car/

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Democratic Republic of the Congo

Prevalence (%): <5% (UNICEF, 2007)

Most common type: Labia elongation

Common ages: Puberty onwards

Practicing groups: Unknown

Terminology: 'Kukeketwa'/'Tohara kwa wanawake' (Swahilli, Female circumcission/circumcission of women.

Regional information: Kivu, Kasai & Katanga provinces, Kinshasa region

Local law: Illegal

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: http://www.refworld.org/publisher/IRBC.html

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Czech Republic

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 312.0

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Year split into 2 by a semester break in February, other breaks include autumn, Christmas, Spring (region dependent), and Summer (July and August)

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Cyprus

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 1.301

Local Law: Criminalised in 2003

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in Summer (mid-June-early September), Christmas and Easter (2 weeks each)

Reference: European journal of Contraception and Reprodictive Health Care (2016)

General References:

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Syria

Prevalence: 8.3% (1 STUDY)

Local Law: No specified law

Terminology:

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

References: Shaeer and Shaeer 2013 (online study)

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Kenya

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 2% 15-49yrs: 15% (DHS, 2022)

Most common type: 2

Common ages: 5-18yrs Medium age: 14yrs

Practicing groups: Somali, Kisii, Samburu, Maasai, Kalenjin (+cuts off)

Terminology: Kutairi'/'Kutairi was ichana'/'Kuketwa'/'Tohara kwa wanawake' (Swahili Circumcision/circumcision of girls/female circumcision/circumcision of women).

Regional information: Highest in Eastern regions (Type III)

Local law: Banned in 2001 (amended in 2011)

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): January-November (K-12 education). Divided into 13 week long terms with a one month break in between.

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/kenya/

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South Sudan

Prevalence: 1% UNICEF 2015

Local Law: Prohibited

Terminology:

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): School year February-December. Holidays in May (2 weeks), September (2 weeks), and late December-early February

References: https://mogei.gov.ss/super/assets/documents/calendar/2024_MoGEI_Academic%20calendar%20and%20implemention%20guidelines_%20South%20Sudan_A5_final_Approved%20and%20signed%20-%203.pdf, https://www.fgmcri.org/country/south-sudan/

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Slovakia

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 57.0

Local Law: No specified law/can be criminalised under Criminal law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in summer (July-September), Christmas (2 weeks), Easter (1 week), as well as shorter holidays in February and October

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Slovenia

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 69.0

Local Law: No specified law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Each year is divided into 2 terms. Holidays include, summer (2 months), autumn, christmas, and first holidays.

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/media/uploads/Law%20Reports/slovenia_law_report_v4_(october_2023).pdf

General References:

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Somalia

Prevalence (%): 15-49yrs: 99.2% (SHDS 2020) 15-18yrs: 96.7% (MICS, 2006)

Most common type: 1,2,3

Common ages: 5-9yrs Medium age: 9yrs

Practicing groups: All

Terminology: 'Gudini' or 'Gudniin'/'Halalays'/'Qodiin' (Somali, circumcision/sanctioned[implies impurity]/stitches, tightening,sewing[infibulation].

Regional information: Widespread

Local law: No specified law, however Puntland state enacted laws against type III FGM.

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/somalia/

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Senegal

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 16% 15-49yrs: 25.2% ( continuous DHS 2019) 15-18yrs: 22.2% (DHS, 2015)

Most common type: 1,2,3

Common ages: 0-9yrs Medium age: 4yrs

Practicing groups: Diola, Poular, Mandingue, Soninke, Wolof,Serere

Terminology:

Regional information: Higher prevalence in South Senegal

Local law: Banned in 1999

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/senegal/

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Sierra Leone

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 8% 15-49yrs: 83% (DHS 2019) 15-18yrs: 74.3% (MICS, 2013)

Most common type: 1,2

Common ages: 0-15yrs Medium age: 14yrs

Practicing groups: All, though heavily assosiated wuth Bondo secret society.

Terminology: 'Sunna' (Soussou, Religious Tradition or obligation). 'Bondo'/'Sonde' (Temenee,Mendee,Mandingo,Limba-integral part of initiation into adulthood [non-muslim]). 'Halalays' (Mandinka,sanctioned[implies impurity].

Regional information: Highest prevalence in Karene province (North), lowest in Bo (central province)

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/sierra-leone/

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Sweden

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 38.939

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Schedule determined annually. Holidays in Summer,Autumn,Christmas,February and Easter.

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/media/uploads/Law%20Reports/sweden_law_report_v4_(november_2023).pdf

General References:

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Sudan

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 30% 15-49yrs: 87% (MICS 2014)

Most common type: 1,3

Common ages: 9yrs

Practicing groups: All

Terminology: Tahoor/Takhor' (Arabic: to purify, circumcision) Khifad (Arabic)

Regional information: Highest prevalence in North West

Local law: Criminalised in 2021

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: UNICEF

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Djibouti

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 31% 15-49yrs: 90% (EVFF 2019)

Most common type: 3, 4

Common ages: 0-9yrs Medium age: 9yrs

Practicing groups: All

Terminology: 'Gudnin' (Somali, Circumcision) 'L'excision' (French, excision)

Regional information: Widespread across country

Local law: Banned in 1995 (amended in 2009)

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/djibouti/

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Denmark

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 7.910

Local Law: Criminalised in 2005

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in Summer (end June-early August), October (1 week), Christmas (2 weeks), February (1 week), and Easter (1 week)

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Germany

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 74.899

Local Law: Criminalised

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): 5 main holidays; Summer (July-August/September), Autumn (October/November), Christmas, Winter (February), and Easter

Reference: Dunkelzifferstatistik zu weiblicher Genitalverstümmelung in Deutschland, Terre des Femmes (2020)

General References:

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Yemen

Prevalence (%): 0-14: 15% (NSPMS) 15-49yrs: 19% 15-18yrs: 16.4% (DHS, 2013)

Most common type: 2

Common ages: 1st week after birth Vast majority cut within 1st month/ weeks of life

Practicing groups: Unknown

Terminology: 'Al-takmeed' (Arabic,Compression)

Regional information: Highest prevalence areas Hadramout and Al-Mrah (East), also high in Al-hodieidah.

Local law: Banned in 2001

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/yemen/

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Austria

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 7.036

Local Law: No specified law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in July-September (2 months), Christmas (2 weeks), February (1 week), Easter (1 week), as well as a few days in October

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

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United States

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 513.000

Local Law: Criminalised (though specifically prohibited in only 35/50 states)

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Terms split up by; Summer break (10/11 weeks), Christmas (1/2 weeks), Spring/Easter (1 week), as well as days off for thanksgiving

Reference: Goldberg, Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting in the United States: Updated Estimates of Women and Girls at Risk, (NCBI, 2012).

General References:

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Latvia

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 5.0

Local Law: No specified law

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in summer (June-September), October (1 week), Christmas (2 weeks), March (1 week)

Reference: Van Baelan, Ortensi, Leye (2016)

General References:

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Sri Lanka

Prevalence (%): Unknown

Most common type: 1,2,4

Common ages: 40d after birth

Practicing groups: Moors,Malays Dawoodi Borah

Terminology: 'Sunnah' (Tamil, religious obligatio/ tradition for Muslims), Khatna (Dawoodi Bohra)

Regional information: Unknown

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Dependent on school type. Holidays in May/June (2 weeks), July (2 weeks), Oct/November (2-4 weeks),

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/sri-lanka/ , https://moe.gov.lk/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/English-Calender.pdf

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Thailand

Prevalence (%): Unknown

Most common type: 1,4

Common ages: 0-11yrs

Practicing groups: Thai, Malay, Chinese & Dawoodi Bohra

Terminology: 'Sunat' (Malay, circumcision)

Regional information: South Thailand & Satun province

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): 2 main holidays, March-May (6/8 weeks), and 2/3 weeks in October.

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/thailand/

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Togo

Prevalence (%): 15-49yrs: 3.1% (MICS 2017) 15-18yrs: 1.8% (DHS, 2013/14)

Most common type: 1,2

Common ages: 0-14yrs Most common 5-9y

Practicing groups: Muslim women (DHS 2015), and Autres Togolais

Terminology: 'Female circumcision' (English). 'L'excision' (French).

Regional information: Highest prevalence in Central Togo

Local law: Banned in 1998

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/togo/

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Chad

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 7% 15-49yrs: 34% (MICS, 2019)

Most common type: 2

Common ages: 0-14yrs Medium age: 9yrs

Practicing groups: Dadajo,Sara, Arab, Hadjarai, Ouadai, Fitri-Batha

Terminology: 'Bagne'/'Gadja' (Nilo Sudanic Language)

Regional information: Higher prevalence in South East

Local law: Banned in 2003

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/chad/

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Libya

Prevalence: 8.4% (1 STUDY)

Local Law: No specified law

Terminology:

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Year runs from late autumn-June/July/August (grade dependent). Spring break in March

References: Shaeer and Shaeer 2013 (online study)

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United Arab Emirates

Prevalence (%): 34% (Dubai women's college, 2011)

Most common type: 4

Common ages: Infancy

Practicing groups: Sudanese, Somali, Omani

Terminology:

Regional information: Low throughout country

Local law: Illegal to perform in government hospitals

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Three terms: September-December, January-March, and April-July

Reference: (Dubai women's college, 2011)

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Iraq (Kurdistan)

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 1% 15-49yrs: 7.4% (MICS 2018)

Most common type: 1

Common ages: 0-9yrs Medium age: 9yrs

Practicing groups: Kurdish, Arab, Turkmen

Terminology: Khatana (Kurdish,Circumcision)

Regional information: Juristan (North): 77.9% in Suleymaniya 81.2% in Garmyan & New Kirkuk 63% in Arbil 7% in Dohuk

Local law: Banned in 2011 (Kurdistan region)

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/iraqi-kurdistan/

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Iran

Prevalence (%): Unknown

Most common type: 1,2

Common ages: 7yrs

Practicing groups: Muslim women

Terminology: Khatne' (circumcision) Khatana (Kurdish Sorani, circumcision) Sunat (Farsi, circumcision)

Regional information: Highest in South & West

Local law: Illegal

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Academic year September-June. Schools closed end of March-early April.

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/media/uploads/Continent%20Research%20and%20Resources/Middle%20East/kameel_-_en_final.pdf

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Italy

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 87.600

Local Law: Criminalised in 2006

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Very region dependent. Possible holidays may include; Summer (June/July-September), Christmas, Carnival (February), and Easter.

Reference: Stima del numero di donne portatrici di mutilazioni genitali, delle bambine a rischio e dell’attitudine nei confronti della pratica (2019)

General References:

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Austalia

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 53.000

Local Law: Illegal

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in late December-end January, April (1 week), June/July (3 weeks), and September/October (2 weeks)

Reference: The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2019)

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India

Prevalence (%): 75% in Bohra communities (Sahiyo and WeSpeakOut)

Most common type: 1,4

Common ages: Infancy

Practicing groups: Dawoodi Bohra

Terminology: 'Khatna'/'Khatnauracion' (Lisan ud-dawat [Gujarati dialect] circumcision)

Regional information: Mainly in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Local law: No specified law

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Year runs from May/June-March

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/india/

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Tanzania

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 1% 15-49yrs: 8% (DHS 2022) 15-18yrs: 4.7% (DHA, 2015-16)

Most common type: 2

Common ages: 8yrs

Practicing groups: Chagga,Gogo,Hadza,Kurya,Massai, Nyaturu

Terminology: Kuketwa'/'Tohara kwa wanawake' (Sawhili,female circumcision/circumcision of women).

Regional information: Highest in Mara, Arusha, Manyara (58% prevalence), Dodoma & Singida (North East regions)

Local law: Banned in 1998

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region):

Reference: https://www.fgmcri.org/country/tanzania/

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Ireland

Estimated Prevalence (No. Cases): 5.790

Local Law: Criminalised: FGM act (2012)

School Term Dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Holidays in summer (May/June-Early September), October (1 week), Christmas (2 weeks), February (1 week), Easter

Reference: AKIDWA estimations based on Ireland’s Central Statistics Office (2016)

General References:

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Indonesia

Prevalence (%): 0-14yrs: 55% (SPHPN 2021)

Most common type: 1, 4

Common ages: FIrst months or weeks of life

Practicing groups: Among Muslim women (FGC promoted as obligatory religious requirement)

Terminology: Sunat/Sunat Perempuan (Malay, circumcision/females sunnah or tradition).

Regional information: Spead across country

Local law: Illegal to preform certain types

School term dates (may be dependent on grade/region): Two terms, July-December and January-June (Schools also closed during Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr

Reference: UNICEF global database

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Countries with available data
Unknown prevalence
0-15% prevalence
16-30% prevalence
31-45% prevalence
46-60% prevalence
61-85% prevalence
85-100% prevalence
Data from estimated prevalence
Media reports or anecdotes

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