Kids like Laila
Laila is about to enter adolescence. It’s a difficult time for any child. In some communities though, adolescence can be a time when they are in danger of Female Genital Mutilation.
Over 70 million girls have endured female genital mutilation (FGM/C). Laila* is one of the lucky ones.
Thanks to a UNICEF-supported campaign her village in Sudan agreed to abandon FGM/C.
FGM violates the rights of girls; their right to equal opportunities, health and freedom from violence.
Individuals who endure the painful practice of FGM often suffer for the rest of their lives. Urination is often affected, girls who endure this practice are more susceptible to health problems such as fistula. The unsanitary conditions in which FGM is often practiced can have lifelong health implications even affecting the fulfilment of a safe pregnancy. In addition the practice of FGM has enormous psychological impacts for the girls and women involved.
UNICEF works with Governments and communities to run education and health campaigns that encourage community dialogue about the practice of FGM, allowing discussion that can lead to social change, and eventually, the abandonment of genital mutilation.
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UNICEF Global Parents are compassionate Australians who recognise injustice in the world and want to do something that makes a real difference.
Global Parents make monthly contributions that help UNICEF make it right for all children, not just one.
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*Not her real name.
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