The following are necessary elements for drafting legislation on FGM. Each element is discussed in detail below:
- A national plan and strategy;
- A legislative preamble that takes a stand against violence against women;
- A clear and precise definition of FGM;
- Criminalization of the act of FGM;
- Criminalization of aiding and abetting the act of FGM;
- A duty to report for all persons who become aware of the occurrence or the imminent occurrence of FGM;
- A framework of child protection legislation which is based upon the best interests of the child;
- A fully developed order for protection for actual or potential victims of FGM;
- A clear statement of victims’ rights and adequate responses to victims’ needs;
- A clear statement of the roles and responsibilities of government and community actors; and
- A clear statement of broader coordinated policies to include a coordinated community response, public education and trainings.