At the beginning of April 2007, Eritrea issued a 'Proclamation to Abolish Female Circumcision', stating that it seriously endangers women's health - and violates their human rights.
The law, which came into immediate effect, lists the traditional procedures now prohibited, and outlines the punishments facing those who continue to practise FGM: two to three years in prison, plus a heavy fine - or five to ten years imprisonment if it results in death.
Medical practitioners who perform FGM will face more severe penalties and be banned from practising for up to two years.
The move follows a campaign against the practice by the National Union of Eritrean Women, which says that 94% of Eritrean women have been circumcised.
Several commentators writing on Eritrean websites express outrage - accusing the State of seeking to destroy a vital part of Eritreans' cultural heritage.
Read why WOMANKIND and its partners around the world work to outlaw FGM.
April 2007
