Religions for Peace and UNICEF host UNGA80 Side Event on combatting FGM and Child Marriage

Faith leaders and faith actors hold significant influence and access within family and

community spheres, enabling them to shape the beliefs, values, attitudes, and

practices of their congregations. When it comes to harmful practices such as FGM

and child marriage, religious leaders play a particularly important role, as these

behaviours have, at times, been justified through misinterpretation of religious

scripture. In light of this, Religions for Peace and UNICEF hosted a joint Side Event on

the margins of the 80 th United Nations General Assembly, “The Role of Faith in

Protecting Children from Female Genital Mutilation and Child Marriage”. The event

featured high-level opening remarks, followed by an interactive panel discussion

where the role of effective faith engagement for the complete prevention of FGM

and Child Marriage was discussed. Speakers and panellists shared their experiences,

highlighted best practices, discussed pushbacks and challenges, and reaffirmed their

commitments to ending FGM and Child marriage.