Two-Day Training on National and International Legal Instruments Addressing Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

Two-Day Training on National and International Legal

Instruments Addressing Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

In May 2025, African Women’s Rights Advocates (AWRA), with support from the World Bank, convened a two-day high-level training on national and international legal instruments addressing Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The training brought together 48 key stakeholders, including Members of the National Assembly, social workers, activists, and civil society leaders, to enhance understanding of The Gambia’s FGM law and relevant international frameworks such as the Maputo Protocol, CEDAW, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The sessions focused on legal enforcement, survivor-centered approaches, and cross-sector collaboration, with participants engaging in case analysis, survivor testimonies, and strategic planning. Key outcomes included stronger capacity to interpret and apply FGM-related laws, recognition of enforcement gaps, and actionable recommendations such as enhancing judicia training, protecting whistleblowers, and strengthening community engagement.

This initiative marks a critical step toward closing the gap between legal provisions and practical enforcement, ensuring that human rights and legal protections for women and girls are upheld. AWRA will continue to work with lawmakers, civil society, and community leaders to advance legal reforms and support survivor-centered interventions.

Training on National and International Legal Instruments Addressing Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)