The Guardian: Education is central to ending FGM
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

“It has been deeply inspiring for me to hear that Fahma Mohamed, a 17-year-old supported by The Guardian, has attracted well over 212,000 signatures to her petition demanding action to end female genital mutilation (FGM). … As U.N. secretary general, one of my priorities is to help to empower women and girls, by promoting their health and defending their rights. We should strive to preserve the best in any culture, and leave those that harm behind. I hope that Fahma’s campaign is taken up elsewhere in the world. … Fortunately there are positive signs of progress in our global push to end this harmful practice. … The U.N. and our partners are engaged in valuable, culturally sensitive activities that aim to stop FGM without scolding or shame. … The effect on individuals will be profound, sparing them terrible suffering and pain. So thank you, Fahma, for what you are doing to help make this happen” (2/18).