A parallel event held during the Commission on the Status of Women

Technology is an ever-growing facet of our lives. The possibilities of what can be accomplished by technology are expanding and so too has the need to find new ways to incorporate it into existing activist strategies. Across the globe, technology is being used to address female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) innovatively. Defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as any procedure that involves the removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons, FGM/C is internationally recognized as a human rights violation. 

During this session, we will explore how technology, internet communication, and the digitalization of awareness raising can help achieve the elimination of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). This will be an opportunity to hear from some of the leading innovators in the area of technological solutions to addressing FGM/C and other digital adaptation strategies. This session will also allow for a dialogue on key challenges when it comes to reaching everyone — and for a reflection on recommendations to fill the gap around access to technology between urban and rural communities.

This event is hosted by the Global Platform For Action to End FGM/C. The Global Platform brings together global civil society actors, experts, and decision-makers for joint advocacy actions towards the elimination of FGM/C, with a holistic approach to improve the health and well-being of women and achieve SDG 5.3 addressing root causes of gender-based violence, gender inequality, and harmful practices.