UNICEF estimates that 70 million girls and women aged 15–49 in 27 countries of Africa and the Middle East have undergone female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). Prevalence varies significantly across and within countries.

The prevalence of FGM/C has declined slowly but steadily during the past 15 years. Older girls and younger women are less likely to have experienced any form of FGM/C than older women.

Lowered prevalences of FGM/C may reflect the impact of legislation, policy changes at the national level and actions at the community level. Because of societal pressures, individuals who oppose FGM/C may be unable to abandon the practice. Abandonment on a large scale requires a collective approach.

Sources for figures on this page: UNICEF global databases, 2007, based on MICS, DHS and other national surveys in 27 countries,1997–2006. Analysis of prevalence by age group is based on survey data in 26 countries.