The UPR Project at BCU has submitted a stakeholder report for The Gambia’s 4th cycle Universal Periodic Review, calling attention to one of the most urgent threats to human rights in the region: the proposed repeal of the ban on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Despite being a signatory to major international human rights treaties (including CEDAW and the CRC) The Gambia now faces a turning point. A new bill set for parliamentary vote could make it the first country to reverse a national ban on FGM.
Our submission presents legal analysis and policy recommendations to encourage The Gambia to remain committed to its obligations and international commitments.
What’s At Stake
73% of women and girls in The Gambia have experienced FGM—65% before the age of 5.
The Women’s (Amendment) Bill 2024 threatens to repeal the current legal protection in place.
If repealed, The Gambia would set a dangerous precedent globally for reversing women’s rights.
Our Recommendations Include:
Reject the bill proposing to repeal the FGM ban.
Uphold obligations under international and regional law.
Implement targeted public education and sensitisation campaigns.
Support survivors with medical, legal, and psychosocial care.
Allocate a clear, ring-fenced budget to end FGM by 2030.
Why This Matters
FGM is a violation of the right to life, health, and bodily autonomy. Our report outlines how repealing the ban not only breaches The Gambia’s legal obligations but undermines decades of progress toward Sustainable Development Goals 5 and 16.
The UPR Project at BCU remains committed to working with local and international partners to advance gender justice and legal reform in The Gambia and across Africa.
Read the Full Submission
Understand the full scope of the recommendations and analysis provided in the report.