Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-02-29 09:12:11
Efforts to Repeal Anti-FGM Law in The Gambia Undermine International Commitments
Mr. Fallou Sowe, the National Coordinator of the Network Against Gender-Based Violence, is deeply concerned about the potential repeal of the Women Amendment Act (2015) in The Gambia. This act currently prohibits Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the country. Sowe believes that repealing this law would not only undermine the progress made in combating gender-based violence but also the country’s international commitments.
In 1993, The Gambia ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) without reservations. By doing so, the country committed to upholding the rights and freedoms of women as outlined in the convention. Sowe emphasized that The Gambia has signed numerous regional and international legal frameworks that are against legalizing FGM. Over the past 30 to 35 years, there has been significant effort put into achieving the prohibition of FGM in the country. Therefore, if the law is repealed now, it could have severe consequences, especially for the welfare of women and children in The Gambia.
Recently, officials from the Network Against Gender-Based Violence engaged in dialogue with lawmakers at the National Assembly to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining the law that prohibits FGM/C in The Gambia. Sowe stressed the detrimental effects that repealing this law would have, urging legislators to consider the well-being of women and girls in the country.
“We’ve gathered here to speak to you as our representatives to understand that the repealing of the law will cause more harm than good,” Sowe expressed to the lawmakers. He reminded them of their responsibility to make decisions that serve the best interests of all people, not just a select few.
Sowe highlighted the research that has been conducted in The Gambia on FGM, showcasing the health complications and social consequences faced by women and girls who undergo this harmful practice. He called on lawmakers to prioritize the protection and empowerment of women and girls in the country by maintaining the existing legislation against FGM.
In conclusion, repealing the Anti-FGM/C Law in The Gambia would not only undermine the country’s international commitments but also jeopardize the well-being of women and girls. It is crucial for lawmakers to prioritize the protection of women’s rights and work towards eliminating harmful practices like FGM to create a safer and more equitable society for all.
Read the original article on The Voice Gambia
