Knowledge-Sharing Event: TERRE DES FEMMES hosted the event at the European House, Berlin
On November 25th, End FGM EU hosted its annual Knowledge-Sharing Event (KSE) in Berlin, Germany.
TERRE DES FEMMES invited the partner organisations of the End Female Genital Mutilation European Network to Berlin to mark its 10th anniversary. The conference served as a platform to discuss topics such as good practices in prevention work, protective measures, the legal situation in various countries, and the collection of data on affected individuals.
A Strong Stand Against Violence
The event began with participants joining TERRE DES FEMMES' flag action at the Brandenburg Gate. Under the slogan #WhenViolenceDoesNotStop, they raised awareness of the ongoing issue of domestic violence. Together, they held up signs and sent a visible message against violence toward women.
Reflecting on a Decade of Commitment
The conference was part of the #FGMIsPatriarchy campaign by the End FGM European Network, shedding light on FGM/C as a form of gender-based violence against women. 2024 marked the 10th anniversary of the network. In her opening speech, Marianne Nguena Kana, Interim Director of End FGM EU, highlighted the network's successes and emphasised the importance of cooperation across Europe in the fight against FGM/C.
From Patriarchal Oppression to Trauma Recovery
Throughout the day, several lectures and panel discussions explored various aspects of FGM/C. The first panel discussion featured experts exchanging national prevention strategies in European countries. Best practices were presented, emphasising a preventive approach to FGM/C as a patriarchal mechanism of oppression.
The second discussion focused on the protection and support of affected women. Experts discussed how a comprehensive counselling system could be developed to meet the specific needs of those affected.
Another key topic was the connection between asylum procedures and trauma recovery. Specialists debated how the asylum process could be improved for women affected by FGM/C in Europe.
The final panel explored the legal situation in different European countries and how laws against FGM/C are being implemented.
Strengthening Communities
A central aim of the KSE 2024 was to amplify the voices of the affected communities. Representatives from End FGM EU, national organisations, and civil society initiatives exchanged insights on successes and challenges in the fight against FGM/C over the past ten years.
Closing and Outlook
The event concluded with an interactive reflection session, where participants summarised the day's findings and developed ideas for future actions to further advance the fight against FGM/C.
The Knowledge Sharing Event 2024 was not only a reflection on a decade of commitment but also a call to continue collaboration and further strengthen the rights of women and girls in Europe.