More Female Genital Mutilation in Netherlands, Thousands at Risk

The number of women and girls who have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM) in the Netherlands has risen in recent years – from 40,994 in 2018 to 43,428 in 2023. These new figures, presented on Tuesday at a symposium focused on FGM and related issues, highlight a concerning trend in a country where the practice has been illegal for over three decades. The results will be published in a study commissioned by the Ministry of Health in April.

In addition to those already affected, an estimated 29,000 girls in the Netherlands may be at risk of FGM over the next twenty years. This includes girls from countries where the practice is common, as well as a smaller group – around 2,600 – considered to be at “real risk” in the coming years, potentially due to familial traditions. This data underscores the ongoing public health challenge of protecting vulnerable girls from this harmful practice.

Female genital mutilation – which involves the partial or total removal or damage of the external female genitalia without medical justification – is rooted in beliefs about femininity and sexuality. The practice is often seen as a way to ensure a girl’s chastity, purity, and suitability for marriage.

FGM is illegal and punishable by up to sixteen years in prison in the Netherlands. The law as well applies to cases where the procedure is performed abroad on a resident of the Netherlands.

‘Tip of the Iceberg’

According to research from Pharos, the rise in the number of women who have undergone FGM is linked to migration. An increasing number of women in the Netherlands were born in countries where FGM is practiced. Approximately two-thirds of affected women in the Netherlands come from Somalia, Ethiopia, or Eritrea. Girls from Egypt, Iraq, and Ghana are also at risk.

The affected population falls into two groups: women who were already subjected to FGM before arriving in the Netherlands, and girls born in the Netherlands who are at risk, potentially during travel to their country of origin.

Pharos notes that there are indications the practice is occurring in other European countries – including France, Italy, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. However, concrete evidence of FGM within the Netherlands remains limited. Gynecologist Wendela Kolkman believes it is “naive” to assume the practice doesn’t occur within the country. She treats women who have undergone FGM weekly at the HagaZiekenhuis. “It’s the tip of the iceberg.”

Kolkman notes that the topic remains difficult to discuss, both within migrant communities and among healthcare professionals. “Healthcare providers and doctors experience embarrassment when initiating the conversation, while it is their responsibility to do so.” This reluctance can lead to missed opportunities for intervention. Professionals may fear crossing cultural boundaries or damaging trust with patients. Warning signs can be overlooked and FGM may head unaddressed.

some healthcare providers lack sufficient knowledge. Women and girls who repeatedly visit their general practitioner with, for example, urinary tract infections, may not have the underlying cause investigated.

Focus on Prevention

The increase in the number of women who have undergone FGM does not necessarily indicate the problem is better understood. Many women are still struggling to navigate the Dutch healthcare system, particularly if they are newly arrived or do not speak the language. Women in asylum centers are often focused on basic survival and dealing with numerous other challenges, making them less receptive to information about FGM.

It also frequently happens that girls undergo FGM during a vacation abroad, says Senait Tekie. Tekie works as a ‘key figure’ for the GGD in The Hague, providing information to Eritrean women about the dangers of FGM. She herself was subjected to FGM as an infant. According to Pharos, most girls are subjected to the practice between the ages of four and twelve, though this varies by country. “Girls from Somalia are particularly at risk during their vacations,” says Tekie. “Parents leave their daughters with family members, where they undergo FGM.”

FGM can lead to serious physical and psychological problems. In the most severe form, where the vaginal opening is narrowed, childbirth can be problematic, says Kolkman. According to Kolkman, women often do not realize that their complaints are related to FGM. Surgery can prevent complications or alleviate symptoms.

The Dutch approach focuses primarily on prevention and care, rather than criminal prosecution. Key figures from communities such as the Somali or Ethiopian communities play an important role by establishing contact with parents and girls and providing information about the dangers of FGM.

Ban in the United Kingdom

Research from the Scientific Research and Documentation Centre (WODC) already revealed late last year that potential victims are insufficiently protected and are often “ (too) late or not at all” identified. The WODC advocated for additional legislation and protective measures.

In the United Kingdom, potential victims can be issued with a travel ban if there are indications that a girl is at risk of being subjected to FGM during a vacation in her country of origin. Healthcare providers, teachers, or family members can apply for a court protection order. This is not currently done, or rarely done, in the Netherlands. No criminal cases have been brought in the Netherlands since the FGM ban was introduced.

The figures from Pharos, Kolkman says, underscore the need for continued attention – not only in healthcare but also in education. Every woman who receives appropriate care is a win, says Kolkman, but true prevention begins with awareness: “Here, but especially in the countries where it is common.”

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