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International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation

On International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM, join us in raising awareness and standing against this harmful practice that affects millions of women worldwide.

Saturday

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 6

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYViolence Prevention

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to stand up against a harmful practice on International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation, observed on February 6. This day was first established by the United Nations in 2003 to raise awareness and promote action towards eliminating female genital mutilation (FGM) worldwide. FGM is a harmful traditional practice that violates human rights and has no health benefits for girls and women. On this day, let's join hands to advocate for gender equality and empower women and girls around the world. Together, we can make a positive impact and end this harmful practice once and for all!

TIMELINE

International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation Timeline

FGM Banned in Egypt

Egypt becomes one of the first countries in Africa to ban female genital mutilation (FGM), setting a precedent for the international community.

FGM Recognized as Violation of Rights

The United Nations General Assembly included FGM in the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, recognizing it as a violation of human rights.

First Zero Tolerance Day

The Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices affecting the health of Women and Children led the first International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM on February 6.

UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme

The United Nations Population Fund and the United Nations Children's Fund established the Joint Programme on FGM to accelerate abandonment of the practice.

Global Resolution to Ban FGM

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously passed a resolution to ban FGM worldwide, encouraging countries to implement prevention measures.

Sustainable Development Goal Target

FGM is included in the Sustainable Development Goals under Target 5.3: Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and FGM.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation

Educate yourself and others

Take the time to research and educate yourself on the harmful effects of female genital mutilation (FGM). Share your knowledge with others to raise awareness about this issue.

ATTEND

Attend a community event

Check if there are any events or discussions being held in your community to commemorate this day. Attend and show your support for ending FGM.

SUPPORT

Support organizations working to end FGM

Donate to or volunteer with organizations that are dedicated to ending FGM. You can also help spread their message and raise funds for their cause.

JOIN

Join a protest or march

Participate in a peaceful protest or march to show your support for ending FGM and bringing attention to this human rights violation.

START

Start a conversation

Use your voice to start a conversation about FGM with friends, family, and colleagues. This can help break the silence surrounding this issue and encourage others to take action.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation is Important

It provides support for victims and survivors

International Day of Zero Tolerance also serves as a platform for supporting and uplifting those who have been affected by FGM. It can serve as a reminder that they are not alone and that there is a global community fighting against this harmful practice.

It raises awareness about the harmful practice

By dedicating a day to bring attention to female genital mutilation (FGM), it helps to shed light on this unjust and damaging practice that still occurs in many parts of the world. Education is key in putting an end to FGM, and International Day of Zero Tolerance serves as an important platform for starting conversations and spreading information.

It advocates for human rights and equality

Female genital mutilation is a violation of human rights and goes against the principle of gender equality. By observing this day, we are standing up against this form of violence and calling for the protection of women's rights all over the world.

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