By James Lahai
The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has called on the government to amend the newly enacted Child Rights Act 2025 to explicitly criminalize Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) against underage girls.
In a statement, the Commission said the absence of a clear prohibition in the legislation leaves gaps in the protection of children’s rights.
“The cultural practice of FGM against girls undermines their rights to health, education, dignity and life. We therefore urge the government to immediately amend the Child Rights Act 2025, particularly Section 19, to clearly prohibit the practice of FGM against underage girls,” HRCSL Vice Chairperson Victor Idrissa Lansana said.
The Child Rights Act 2025 was recently enacted as part of broader efforts to strengthen child protection laws in Sierra Leone. However, rights advocates have raised concerns that the law does not expressly criminalize FGM involving minors.
Sierra Leone has one of the highest prevalence rates of FGM globally, according to international health agencies, with the practice often carried out as part of traditional initiation rites.
The Commission urged lawmakers to align domestic legislation with international human rights standards and Sierra Leone’s treaty obligations, including commitments to protect children from harmful cultural practices.
Government officials were not immediately available for comment on whether amendments to the Act would be considered.
The HRCSL said it remains committed to working with state institutions, civil society and traditional leaders to ensure stronger legal safeguards for girls.
