[Burlington, March 21,2025] – A groundbreaking new report by Islamic Relief Canada reveals that Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is occurring in Canada – in private homes and through girls being taken overseas.
The report, released today and funded by the Department of Women, Gender and Equality, explores the prevalence of FGM/C in Canada and highlights significant gaps in the Canadian healthcare system’s ability to support survivors.
The report’s findings, based on qualitative interviews and an online national survey of healthcare practitioners, demonstrate that FGM/C has been happening privately in Canada and through girls being taken overseas – a practice known as vacation cutting. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted policy interventions, including better healthcare training, culturally sensitive healthcare protocols, and comprehensive mental health services to support survivors of FGM/C.
"This report is a vital step in understanding the extent of FGM/C in Canada and addressing the gaps in support for survivors" said Reyhana Patel, Director of Communications & Government Relations at Islamic Relief Canada. “One of the key themes of this study is that to truly end this practice, it must be community-led. While FGM/C is illegal in Canada, legality alone will not end the practice. A comprehensive, community-led approach—supported by governments, policymakers, and service providers—is essential to effectively address and prevent FGM/C in Canada."
Key findings of the report include:
- Prevalence of FGM/C in Canada: Although data on FGM/C is scarce, the report confirms that the practice is occurring in Canada. Survivors of FGM/C have shared their experiences, with one survivor telling us her grandmother flew to Canada specifically to perform FGM/C on her.
- Healthcare System Gaps: Healthcare practitioners, as well survivors have expressed concerns about the Canadian healthcare system’s inability to properly address the needs of survivors. Critical gaps were identified in practitioners’ knowledge and training, particularly in how to support survivors with both physical and psychological care.
- The Need for Holistic Support: The report calls for a more integrated, culturally sensitive approach to healthcare, including improved access to trauma-informed mental health services for survivors.
- Community-Based Interventions: The report emphasizes the role of community leaders, including religious leaders and elders, in combating FGM/C. By involving communities in educational efforts and advocacy, a sustainable approach to ending the practice and supporting those impacted can be established.
For any media inquiries please contact Mashaal Saeed at [email protected] or at 647-919-1580