Number of girls and women victim or at risk of FGM in Belgium 2007-2016

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a human rights violation and a form of gender-based violence that can cause many physical and psychological complications throughout life. Yet, from 2007 to 2016, the number of estimated victims was growing in Belgium. In 2016, it was estimated that 26 thousand women were victims of excision or could be at risk of mutilation in the country.

Although it is a crime, the practice continues during holidays in the country of origin or directly within Belgian territory. The core of this practice takes its roots in tradition and culture. Excisions are performed in the name of beliefs who relate to virginity, hygiene, aesthetics, and diminishing the sexual pleasure of women and, allegedly, increasing those of men.