Aim
The Letter of protection for girls at risk of FGM/C is a practical approach to prevent FGM/C of girls in, and outside Germany. The letter informs that performing female genital mutilation is a criminal offence that is punishable by imprisonment, even when undertaken abroad. In Germany, performing female genital mutilation is a criminal offence that is punishable with imprisonment of up to 15 years.
Method
Based on an initiative from the UK, Germany published The Letter of protection for girls at risk of FGM/C signed by five ministers and translated into 16 languages.
the letter is a strong political signal of Germany’s commitment to prevent and prosecute FGM/C and protect girls at risk.
The letter also contributes to awareness-raising among the public, including by defining what FGM/C is, providing an extract from the Criminal Code and providing information on where to turn if there is a suspicion that FGM/C will be performed.
