While the world today marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C) under the theme: "Synergy of action by Governments, International Community and Civil Society to accelerate the achievement of the Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation," we recall the everyday reality of 100-140 million women across the world, who have been subjected to this brutal practice. Not to mention the over three million women and girls that this year will face the risk of being cut.

FGM/C has serious immediate and long-term health including sexual reproductive health, social and psychological consequences and it is a clear violation of fundamental human rights.

Progress and challanges in the Arab States

In Arab States as Somalia, Sudan, Djibouti and Egypt women and girls are still suffering from those consequences. The call for accelerated action is still echoing across the region to ensure the right to dignity, health and to fulfill her human potential, free from coercion, harm or violence of every girl.

However, on this milestone day we also ought to highlight the tremendous and remarkable progress made in increasing the number of communities abandoning the practice, and freeing women and girls from the chains of fear and suffering.