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)
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):
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:
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
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)
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:
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/
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:
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/
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:
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.
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:
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/
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/
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/
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)
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
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)
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)
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:
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:
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
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/
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:
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:
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/
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.
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:
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/
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/
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:
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/
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/
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
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
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/
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)
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:
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:
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:
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:
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/
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/
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/
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:
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)
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/
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/
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/
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
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:
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:
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)
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/
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/
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:
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:
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/
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/
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/
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:
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
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/
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:
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:
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/
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)
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:
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:
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
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/
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/
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/
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)
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)
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/
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.
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:
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)
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/
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/
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:
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
Countries with available data
Data from estimated prevalence
Media reports or anecdotes
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