"Gambia Parliament Reverses Landmark Ban on Female Genital Cutting, Sparking Tension and Healing Efforts"

Gambia's National Assembly has voted to advance a bill that would overturn the ban on female genital cutting, potentially making it the first nation in the world to roll back such a protection. The decision has sparked a national dialogue about religion, culture, patriarchy, and reproductive health, with many survivors and activists opposing the move, citing the physical and emotional harm caused by the practice. The bill's proponents argue that it upholds religious rights and cultural norms, setting the stage for months of national dialogue and possible amendments before a final vote.