What is the proposed legislation to ban FGM in Colombia?

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Proposed Legislation to Ban Female Genital Mutilation in Colombia

A bill is currently under debate in Colombia's Congress that seeks to prohibit the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM). This proposed legislation was developed through collaboration between lawmakers and leaders of Indigenous women. The primary objective of the bill is to eradicate FGM, a practice that has persisted in certain Indigenous communities.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Bill

The draft legislation focuses on education and awareness rather than immediate punitive measures for those who perform the procedure. Recognizing that many midwives may lack comprehensive understanding of the health risks associated with FGM, the bill does not include specific penalties for them. Instead, it mandates the government to implement an extensive awareness campaign. This campaign is designed to inform communities about the severe dangers of FGM and to challenge deeply ingrained myths and traditional beliefs that perpetuate the practice.
Historical Context and Prevalence in Colombia

Female genital mutilation is believed to have been introduced to Indigenous groups in Colombia through the descendants of enslaved Africans. While the practice is recognized globally as a human rights violation by organizations like the UN and WHO, its presence in Colombia is particularly noted within Indigenous communities, such as the Embera people in the Risaralda region. This practice, often carried out with rudimentary tools like blades or even heated nails, has led to severe health consequences, including fatal infections and bleeding, for affected infants.
Data and Underreporting of FGM Cases

Despite the secrecy surrounding the custom, official data indicates a concerning number of FGM cases in Colombia. Between 2020 and 2025, the National Health Institute recorded at least 204 instances of the procedure. However, healthcare professionals working in affected areas, like Sarita Patino, a doctor at a hospital in Pueblo Rico, believe these figures significantly underrepresent the actual incidence of FGM. Dr. Patino has personally witnessed multiple cases this year alone, highlighting the ongoing challenges in addressing this deeply rooted practice.

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What is the proposed legislation to ban FGM in Colombia?

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