Gambia Parliament Upholds FGM Ban Amid Heated Debates

Gambia's parliament has rejected a bill to overturn the ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), maintaining the prohibition amidst public debates. The bill, proposed by Almaneh Gibba, faced opposition from lawmakers, doctors, and anti-FGM activists. The World Health Organization commended the decision, emphasizing the health risks associated with FGM.

Gambia's parliament on Monday firmly rejected a bill that would have lifted the ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), deciding to maintain the prohibition. The Ministry of Information stated that the government's resolve to eliminate the harmful practice is unwavering.

The proposed bill by lawmaker Almaneh Gibba, aimed at upholding cultural and religious practices in the Muslim-majority nation, ignited widespread public debate. However, lawmakers were swayed by testimonies from doctors and survivors highlighting FGM's severe consequences.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised the decision, highlighting the critical importance of protecting women's and girls' rights globally. The bill's rejection signifies Gambia's commitment to its international human rights obligations. Anti-FGM activist Fatou Baldeh expressed relief but also frustration that the bill was considered at all.