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Policy Brief
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

1.7 Minutes
EGY

Are Social Norms Stronger than Individual Freedom? A Deep Dive into Female Genital Mutilation in Egypt

Despite a national ban on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) enacted in 2008 and stricter penalties introduced in 2021, the harmful practice remains deeply entrenched in Egypt. An alarming 87% of Egyptian women aged 15 to 49 have undergone the procedure—a stark indicator of how powerful and persistent social norms can be in shaping personal freedoms, particularly for women.

FGM, defined as the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons, has no health benefits and often results in devastating physical and psychological consequences. From complications in childbirth to life-threatening infections and trauma, the impacts are lifelong. Yet, despite overwhelming evidence of its harm, the practice continues, largely justified by cultural and religious misconceptions that lack any scriptural basis—whether in Islam or Christianity.

What’s more troubling is the trend toward medicalization. According to UNICEF, 72% of FGM procedures in Egypt are now carried out by medical professionals—a disturbing development that may falsely legitimize the practice and lull families into a false sense of safety.

Egypt is not on track to meet Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), which calls for gender equality and an end to all harmful practices, including FGM, by 2030. While efforts by NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations have made some progress—particularly among younger generations—rural areas and communities experiencing poverty and limited education remain disproportionately affected.

The battle against FGM in Egypt is not just legal—it is social, educational, and deeply cultural. And while progress is being made, a more inclusive, grassroots approach is urgently needed to protect future generations of girls.

Read the full policy brief to explore the detailed trends, challenges, and actionable recommendations to help end FGM in Egypt.