Psychological Support for Women Survivors of Female Genital Mutilation in Belgium

Psychological Support for Women Survivors of Female Genital Mutilation in Belgium

Group for the Abolition of Female Genital Mutilation and Forced Marriage (GAMS Belgium)
Belgium
Projet soutenu Project supported in 2025 : Empowering Women

Project presentation

 

In Belgium, nearly 23,000 women who have undergone FGM currently live in the country, and 12,000 girls are still at risk of undergoing female genital mutilation (FGM). These practices, rooted in persistent traditions in certain countries in Africa and Asia, constitute serious violations of human rights and leave deep physical and psychological scars.

To address these needs, GAMS Belgium implements a comprehensive psychological support program for women who are survivors of FGM. This project aims to provide both individual and collective support through consultations with psychologists, support groups, and innovative therapeutic workshops combining art therapy, music therapy, and group discussions. These actions promote recovery, self-esteem, and the fight against social isolation.

Group for the Abolition of Female Genital Mutilation and Forced Marriage (GAMS Belgium) Key figures

23,000

women living in Belgium have undergone FGM.

943

women supported in 2024, including 748 new beneficiaries.

4

active branches across Belgium (Brussels, Namur, Antwerp, Liège).

The association

Founded in 1996, GAMS Belgique fights against female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage. The organisation operates across the entire Belgian territory through four regional branches that provide prevention, psychosocial support for survivors, professional training, advocacy, and international cooperation. Today, GAMS is the leading national reference in the fight against FGM, recognised for its expertise and its fieldwork with migrant and refugee women.

Sur le terrain

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