The below is attributable to Spokesperson Jessica Jennings:
On April 12, Administrator Samantha Power met with Ms. Fatou Baldeh, the Founder of Women in Liberation & Leadership in The Gambia (WILL). They discussed the concerning legislation being considered in The Gambia that would repeal the ban on female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). Administrator Power emphasized her support for survivors of FGM/C and reiterated that FGM/C is a violation of girls’ and women’s human rights, including their right to live free from all forms of violence and discrimination. Around the world, USAID is committed to partnering with governments, national human rights institutions, civil society organizations, and the United Nations to protect these rights and the most vulnerable.