Full Breakdown
Colombia Becomes First Latin American Nation to Ban Female Genital Mutilation
8/5/2026, 9:55:57 PM
Landmark Legislation Bans FGM in Colombia
Colombia’s Congress voted unanimously to criminalize female genital mutilation (FGM), making the country the first in Latin America to outlaw the practice. The legislation, passed last week, follows a prolonged campaign by activists and health professionals to eliminate a procedure that is both dangerous and often hidden.
Background of FGM in Colombia
FGM, though more commonly associated with parts of Africa and the Middle East, has persisted in isolated communities within Colombia, particularly among certain Afro-Colombian and Indigenous groups. The practice is typically performed by older women using non-sterile tools, leading to severe health complications such as infection, hemorrhage, and long-term psychological trauma. Prior to the new law, there was no specific criminal provision addressing FGM, limiting law-enforcement capacity to intervene.
Personal Account Highlights the Harm
Carla Quiñonez (a pseudonym) recounted that her six-month-old daughter was subjected to FGM by the baby’s great-grandmother. The infant developed fever, swelling, and bleeding, and cried continuously. Quiñonez confronted the grandmother, who dismissed the injury as normal and warned against speaking out.
Legislative Process and Official Response
The bill received unanimous support in both chambers of Congress, reflecting broad political consensus. Lawmakers framed the measure as a public-health imperative and a step toward protecting the rights of girls and women. Government officials indicated that the law will enable prosecution of perpetrators and facilitate education campaigns in affected regions.
Regional Implications
Colombia’s ban sets a precedent for neighboring countries, where FGM remains undocumented or unaddressed by law. Human-rights groups anticipate that the legislation could encourage other Latin American governments to introduce similar protections, potentially reducing the prevalence of the practice across the continent.