Foundation Espoir: committing to taking action against excision
Traditional exciser
Every year, four million girls worldwide are at risk of genital mutilation. Alongside UNICEF, the Foundation Espoir is involved in actions against excision in Ethiopia. It has developed programmes in two regions most affected by these practices. Confronted with this reality, the Foundation is set to implement changes that are meeting the expectations of local societies, the main watchword being emancipation. Emancipation achieved by women for their own selves. Such mobilisation will change the lives of women and the overall image that these societies have of themselves.
Today, Ethiopia is one of the countries where female genital mutilation is a social norm. Even these practices cause serious psychological and health consequences, excision and infibulation are still considered as an entry gate to social acceptance and marriage. This practice, aimed at altering or damaging woman's or girl's genitalia, is anchored in violence against women that is accepted by these societies.
In the face of such persistence, partners work on two levels: awareness-raising and medical care. In addition to raising awareness of the risks of the practice itself, the aim is to provide appropriate medical care to women and girls who have undergone genital mutilation and suffer from consequences such as urinary retention, menstrual disorders and difficulties in sexual intercourse. Local population has often been unaware that complications related to FGM could be treated. Doctors supported by the foundation had to reach out, teach and convince the involved communities. Increasingly, communities are becoming aware that women can be treated and that their health problems could be alleviated. While these care services are an integral part of the project, it is essential to undertake preventive measures against FGM.
Among many actions and campaigns that have been carried out, one practice that is particularly significant is that of setting up girls' clubs. These clubs are intended both for FGM victims and women who have not undergone mutilation. Their members go door-to-door in order to raise awareness of dangers that female circumcision entails. They are proof that women no longer want to be seen as mere victims, and that they can finally implement lasting change. Following in their feet, their brothers and husbands have been gradually joining the fight against this harmful practice.
"Anyone who has experienced this kind of suffering is motivated to take action," explains Fatima, who has also been a victim of genital mutilation.
The activities of Foundation Espoir aim at the emancipation of societies and bodies bruised, damaged and diminished by these practices.