Eritrea Reaffirms Strong Commitment to FGM/C Eradication, Citing Significant Progress

Asmara Conference Highlights National Resolve

Eritrea has reiterated its steadfast commitment to the eradication of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C), showcasing significant national progress and a comprehensive strategy during a recent press conference in Asmara. The event, held on October 3, 2025, or October 11, 2025, underscored the nation's dedication to eliminating harmful practices and safeguarding achievements made in this critical area. Ms. Tekea Tesfamicael, President of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW), led the conference alongside representatives from UN offices in Eritrea, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts.

Legal Framework and Collaborative Efforts

A cornerstone of Eritrea's anti-FGM/C efforts is Proclamation No. 158/2007, which came into effect on March 20, 2007, criminalizing the practice and outlining associated penalties. This legislation defines FGM/C comprehensively and punishes its performance, as well as anyone requesting, inciting, or promoting it. The Eritrean government has adopted a holistic approach, known as 'Habarawi,' involving various sectors of society. Key government authorities, including the Ministries of Health, Education, Justice, and Information, partner with organizations like UNICEF and UNFPA through the Joint Programme to end FGM. Additionally, the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) and the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students (NUEYS) play crucial roles in sensitisation campaigns, community abandonment programs, and multimedia education.

Tangible Progress in Prevalence Reduction

Eritrea has achieved notable reductions in FGM/C prevalence, particularly among younger age groups. While historical data showed high rates, with 88.7 percent in 2002 and 83 percent in 2010 among women aged 15-49, recent figures demonstrate a sharp decline. According to FGM/C mapping studies:

• Prevalence among girls under 15 dropped from 18.2 percent in 2014 to 2.3 percent in 2020.
• Prevalence among girls under five fell from 6.9 percent in 2014 to just 0.54 percent in 2020.

These figures represent a significant reduction compared to 2010, when prevalence was 33.2 percent for girls under 15 and 12.4 percent for girls under five. The shift in attitudes is also evident, with over 80 percent of the population opposing the continuation of FGM/C, and 77 percent of women and 82 percent of men believing it offers no benefits.

Community Engagement and Future Outlook

The success is attributed to sustained community mobilization, including public declarations of abandonment and initiatives like the 'My home is free from FGM' campaign, which encourages households to commit to protecting girls. The visit of the Global Steering Committee on FGM/C to Eritrea was highlighted as a significant milestone, drawing international attention to the country's progress and facilitating the exchange of experiences. Members of the Committee commended Eritrea's long-standing efforts, noting that the 2007 proclamation, combined with the active involvement of religious leaders, communities, and development partners, provides strong evidence that the practice can be eradicated entirely by 2030. Continued coordination, awareness-raising, research-based information sharing, technical support, and enhanced community engagement are deemed vital to sustain this momentum.