ABSTRACT
This chapter shows that a slew of legal instruments, whether specific or general laws, is already viable in many nations and can be used to end Female genital mutilation (FGM) by 2030. FGM constitutes a strong social norm with historical, religious, and/or cultural roots. A strong legal framework, improved knowledge of relevant statutes, and enforcement are keys to ending the practice by 2030. Criminalized in many countries, FGM is prohibited either through general or specific jurisprudence. France, for example, relies not on any targeted text that mentions excision but rather on prosecution under the Criminal Code banning mutilation and violent assault. Some commentators feel that criminalizing FGM actually imperils success of campaigns. The commentators believe the law drives adherents to secrecy and thus, evading detection, make successful prosecution or abolition even more elusive. Governments and society must recognize that opposition cannot function in a vacuum without legislation designed to punish offenders and deter the act.
