May 10th, 2025 – As reported in Rebel News by Alex Dhaliwal, a recent report by Islamic Relief Canada (IRC) reveals that female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) continues to affect women and girls in Canada, with up to 161,000 individuals estimated to be survivors or at risk. This figure aligns with Statistics Canada’s 2023 estimates, which indicate that between 95,000 and 161,000 girls and women in Canada may have experienced or be at risk of FGM.
The IRC report, funded by the federal government, highlights the ongoing practice of FGM within Canada, including cases of “vacation cutting,” where girls are taken abroad for the procedure. In one instance, a grandmother traveled to Canada specifically to perform FGM.
Reyhana Patel, Head of Communications at IRC, emphasized the importance of community involvement in addressing this issue. “This report is a vital step in understanding the extent of FGM/C in Canada and addressing the gaps in support for survivors,” she stated. “One of the key themes of this study is that to truly end this practice, it must be community-led.”
FGM encompasses non-medical procedures that involve the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injuries to the female genital organs. Despite being illegal in Canada since 1997—classified as aggravated assault under the Criminal Code—no criminal prosecutions have occurred to date.
The practice poses severe health risks, including immediate complications like intense pain, bleeding, infections, and potential death. Long-term consequences can involve chronic pain, complications during childbirth, and psychological issues such as depression and anxiety .
The IRC report calls for a comprehensive, community-led strategy to eradicate FGM/C in Canada, involving governments, policymakers, and service providers. It also underscores the need for culturally sensitive healthcare support for survivors.
Globally, over 230 million girls and women have undergone FGM/C, with approximately four million more at risk each year . The persistence of this practice in Canada highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect vulnerable populations and support affected individuals.
- with reporting from Victor P.
