UNICEF report on International Women's Day highlights that over 230 million women and girls have experienced female genital mutilation globally.

FGM prevalence has risen by 15%, predominantly in Africa with 144 million cases, Asia with 80 million, and the Middle East with 6 million.

FGM is recognized as a human rights violation, posing serious health risks to women and girls.

Despite progress in countries like Kenya, Sierra Leone, and Egypt, UNICEF calls for increased funding and actions to eliminate FGM by 2030.

Efforts to end FGM are challenged by conflicts, climate extremes, and health and nutrition issues in the regions where it is practiced.

UNICEF urges world leaders to intensify the fight against gender discrimination and inequality to successfully abolish FGM.