Female genital mutilation cannot be prevented through short-term attention followed by long periods of neglect. Specialist organisations need stable, accountable funding to train professionals, work with communities and support women and girls.
This article was first published in 2020 after reporting that funding for work to end FGM had fallen sharply. The exact programmes and budgets have changed since then, but the underlying lesson remains: prevention depends on relationships and expertise built over time.
Funding should be judged by clear outcomes, transparent reporting and the quality of safeguarding practice. It should involve survivors and affected communities, while avoiding the stereotypes that can discourage people from seeking help.
Public concern is valuable only when it becomes consistent policy, professional training and accessible support.
Sources and further reading
Originally published in 2020 and reviewed on 30 July 2026.