International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Campaigners in the UK have launched a new initiative which aims to protect young girls thought to be at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM).

The practice, which the World Health Organization has called a violation of the human rights of girls and women, is widespread across Africa and the Middle East, but Bristol's safeguarding children's board believes up to 2,000 females in the city could be subjected to FGM.

FGM is illegal in the UK and anyone convicted of aiding and abetting the crime can face up to 14 years in prison, but campaigners argue communities need to be more forthcoming with police if they are to prosecute.

Nimco Ali, co-founder of campaign group Daughters of Eve, told the BBC: "The onus falls on the public sector as opposed to waiting for those who are perpetuating the crime to report the crime themselves."

She explained that many of Bristol's large Somali population have not changed their position on FGM since moving to the UK and will look to continue the practice.

Posted by Martine Ward