The Intersection of FGM, Abortion Rights, and Reproductive Justice
We believe in the fundamental right to bodily autonomy—the ability for every person to make informed choices about their bodies without coercion, stigma, or restriction. This principle extends beyond abortion rights to all aspects of reproductive healthcare, including the global conversation on female genital cutting (FGC) as part of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation on February 6th.
The Importance of Language
We use the term female genital cutting (FGC) rather than female genital mutilation (FGM) because it carries less stigma. While FGC is a harmful practice with significant health consequences, we recognize that language matters in fostering open, respectful discussions that do not shame individuals who have undergone the procedure.
Consent, Choice, and Systemic Barriers
Equity is about ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and support they need to make free and informed choices about their bodies. One of the critical concerns surrounding FGC is the lack of true, informed consent. Many individuals undergo FGC in childhood or adolescence, with little to no choice in the matter. Additionally, in communities where FGC is a prerequisite for marriage, women and girls often feel forced into the procedure due to economic and social pressures.
This lack of safe, voluntary choice parallels reproductive rights issues globally, including access to abortion. If a person’s economic security, safety, or social status depends on undergoing FGC, they are not truly free to decide. Similarly, if safe abortion care is unavailable, a person’s ability to decide whether to continue a pregnancy is also compromised. Equity in reproductive healthcare means addressing these systemic barriers and ensuring that all people—regardless of their circumstances—can make real choices.
In both cases, lack of access to safe options eliminates real choice. True reproductive justice means ensuring that every individual can make informed decisions about their body free from coercion, stigma, or legal barriers.
Ensuring Bodily Autonomy and Equity in Reproductive Healthcare
FGC, abortion access, and reproductive justice are interconnected. When people lack the ability to make choices about their own bodies, their autonomy is compromised. Ensuring equity in reproductive healthcare means guaranteeing that every individual has access to safe, informed, and voluntary choices—free from coercion and discrimination.
