The Hague continues to take a clear and uncompromising position against female genital mutilation (FGM). The practice is never tolerated. It is violence. It is a serious violation of the human rights of girls and women, causing lifelong physical and psychological harm. On 6 February 2026, International Zero Tolerance Day for Female Genital Mutilation, the city once again underlines this message with a joint gathering at the Stadspaleis in The Hague.
The Zero Tolerance Day meeting is organised by GGD Haaglanden, the Municipality of The Hague, and Platform 6/2. Together, they emphasise that FGM is prohibited by law in the Netherlands, regardless of whether it takes place within the country or abroad. This legal protection is vital, yet sustained effort remains necessary. Social pressure, taboos and deeply rooted traditions continue to put girls at risk.
Female genital mutilation, also known as girls’ circumcision, is a non-medical procedure with severe and lasting consequences. Worldwide, an estimated 230 million girls and women have undergone FGM, while around four million girls remain at risk each year. The issue is also present in the Netherlands, where tens of thousands of women live with its consequences and several thousand girls may be at risk in the coming decades. Updated prevalence figures will be presented on 24 March during the Symposium on Harmful Practices.
Preventing FGM in The Hague through collaboration
In The Hague, strong progress has been made in recent years. A robust network has been built to prevent FGM and to provide appropriate aftercare. Professionals across healthcare, education, social services and safety organisations know how to find one another. Signals are taken seriously and expertise is actively shared. Close cooperation with the Haga Hospital has strengthened both detection and care, ensuring women and girls receive timely, specialised support.
Prevention also relies on trust and dialogue. Key community figures and youth ambassadors play a crucial role by addressing FGM within their communities and fostering change from within. Their work helps to break the silence and prevent girls and women from becoming victims.
‘A Future Without Scars’ photo exhibition
From 29 January till 20 February, the photo exhibition ‘A Future Without Scars’ from GGD Haaglanden and Youth Ambassadors of the municipality of The Hague with photos from Photographer Daniella van Bergen can be seen in the Atrium City Hall. Highlighting both the impact of FGM and the shared commitment to end it. Through continued cooperation, The Hague remains resolute: together, the city works towards a world free from female genital mutilation.
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International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), observed each year on 6 February, marks a moment to take stock of progress, recognize what has worked and confront the scale of what remains to be done to end this harmful practice.
Women’s initiatives
The Hague has one of the largest immigrant populations in the Netherlands, and a very vibrant and diverse international community. Expats and internationals can start building a network and support system by joining one of the many communities and networks in the region. Here’s a comprehensive list of women's initiatives to get you started.
For every girl, a future free from violence
Ending female genital mutilation is a major challenge that calls for collective action to protect girls' health and their rights ...