WSF Online Roundtable: Cross-Regional Action to End GBV and FGM, 19 October 2026
On 19 October, Forward Thinking’s Women for a Sustainable Future (WSF) Network convened an online roundtable to advance cross-regional cooperation in tackling gender-based violence (GBV) and female genital mutilation (FGM). The session brought together parliamentarians, former parliamentarians, government advisers, legal and public health experts, and civil society leaders to exchange practical strategies for strengthening legislation, improving implementation, raising community awareness and supporting survivors.
The discussion was led by Sema Gornall, Sir Max Hill K.C. and Elysia-Elena Stellakis of the Vavengers, alongside MamLisa Camara of African Women’s Rights Advocates (AWRA). Drawing on the Vavengers’ Global Health and Legal Landscape Report on FGM, speakers highlighted significant gaps between legislation and enforcement, as well as inadequate healthcare and support services for the estimated 230 million women and girls affected globally.
Participants shared experiences from Egypt, Oman, Türkiye, Libya, Iraq, The Gambia and the United Kingdom, identifying opportunities for cross-regional learning and cooperation. Discussions emphasised the importance of:
Strengthening legislative accountability: Ensuring existing laws translate into effective protection through parliamentary scrutiny, enforcement and monitoring.
Improving healthcare responses: Expanding access to screening, specialist healthcare, psychological support and survivor-centred services.
Addressing socio-cultural barriers: Working with religious and community leaders, families and educators to challenge misconceptions surrounding FGM and promote behavioural change.
Building partnerships: Strengthening cooperation between governments, civil society, healthcare professionals and survivor-led organisations to advance coordinated action.
The session concluded with commitments to explore further cooperation between WSF members, the Vavengers and AWRA, including opportunities for policy exchange, expert guidance and joint advocacy to strengthen efforts to tackle FGM and GBV.