Lilian Nyiva
Colombia has taken a major step toward eliminating female genital mutilation (FGM) after its Congress approved legislation aimed at prohibiting the practice and protecting girls and women from the harmful procedure. The move positions Colombia to become the first country in Latin America with a specific law addressing female genital mutilation.
The legislation was approved following years of advocacy by indigenous women leaders, lawmakers, and human rights organizations. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive legal framework to prevent, address, and eradicate FGM, which has been documented in some indigenous communities, particularly among sections of the Emberá people.
Focus on Prevention and Education
Unlike earlier proposals that emphasized criminal penalties, the new legislation adopts a preventive and educational approach. It calls for the development of a national public policy to eliminate FGM, strengthen data collection systems, improve awareness campaigns, and provide support for affected girls and women.
Supporters of the bill say the approach was developed in collaboration with indigenous communities to ensure cultural sensitivity while safeguarding the rights and health of girls. Indigenous leaders played a key role in shaping the legislation and advocating for its passage through Congress.
A Long-Standing Human Rights Concern
Female genital mutilation involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injury to female genital organs for non-medical reasons. International organizations, including the United Nations, classify the practice as a violation of human rights due to its severe physical and psychological consequences.
Although FGM is relatively rare in Latin America, Colombia is the only country in the region where documented cases have continued to be reported in recent years. Experts believe the actual number of cases may be higher due to underreporting and limited data collection.
Indigenous Leaders Welcome the Move
Indigenous women leaders who have campaigned against the practice welcomed the approval of the bill, describing it as a significant victory for girls' rights and community-led reform. Advocates stressed that implementation will be critical to ensuring the law translates into meaningful protection for vulnerable children.
The legislation now awaits final procedural steps, including presidential approval and implementation measures. Once enacted, it is expected to strengthen Colombia's efforts to combat gender-based violence and protect girls from harmful traditional practices.
