FGM: Legisaltive gaps, data poverty and actionable reforms
In this podcast, produced by the IBA Criminal Law Committee, five experts explore the global legal and policy response to female genital mutilation (FGM), which affects over 230 million women and girls worldwide.
FGM is internationally recognised as a human rights violation, yet enforcement remains inconsistent, reliable data is lacking and survivors often lack access to critical support – particularly reconstructive surgery and psychological care. The podcast is framed around a forthcoming pro bono report prepared by King & Spalding and WilmerHale for UK charity the Vavengers, which will be launched at the UN General Assembly in September 2025. The report highlights legislative gaps, data poverty and proposes actionable reforms to improve survivor care and global accountability.
Moderated by Miranda Ching, Partner at Boutique Law and Website Officer of the Criminal Law Committee, the panel features:
- Sema Gornall, CEO of the Vavengers;
- MamLisa Camara, Founder of African Women Rights Advocates;
- Sir Max Hill KC, Senior Counsel at King & Spalding and former Director of Public Prosecutions for England & Wales; and
- Milosz Palej, Senior Associate at WilmerHale.
Together, they examine the lived experiences of survivors, the urgent need for coordinated global reform and the development of the report.