Prevent FGM & Early Marriage
We strive for a world where women and girls have complete control over their choices, bodies and future.
FGM
Unfortunately, approximately 200 million women and girls worldwide continue to be affected by female genital mutilation (FGM)—the partial or complete removal of external female genitalia (typically between the ages of infancy to 15 years old), often times carried out without anesthetic. FGM can cause serious problems that result in lifelong health problems, increased risks during childbirth, psychological trauma, and even death.
Also referred to as “cutting” , FGM is internationally recognized as a serious form of violence against women and girls. It’s existence involves a mixture of cultural, social and religious traditions.
Child Marriage
Child marriage is any formal marriage or informal union where one or both parties is under the age of 18. Each year, 15 million girls are married before the age of 18, oftentimes against their wishes. Child marriage is rooted in gender inequality— it is a complex issue involving poverty, lack of education, cultural practices and a lack of legal/governmental protection. GOPhil believes education to be the most powerful tool in fighting early marriage.
