Date/Time: September 23-25, 2026
Type: Virtual
This study examines the intersections between female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) and human trafficking. The questions that guided this research include: 1) How do FGM/C and human trafficking intersect across contexts? and 2) What pathways link these forms of exploitation, and how are they experienced by survivors and identified by service providers? Limited research and inconsistent global definitions constrain understanding of these intersections.
The research team for this study included lived experience expert researchers and service providers with expertise in FGM/C and human trafficking. The literature review included 114 articles and nontraditional sources, and data collected for this study emerged from interviews with 29 experts, including service providers and lived experience experts across 24 countries. Methods included semi-structured, virtual interviews with trauma-informed translation and interpretation available upon request.
Findings identify three primary intersection pathways: forced or child marriage, trafficking while fleeing FGM/C, and trafficking after FGM/C. Key emerging trends included: sexual and labor exploitation of displacement, mysticism and organ trafficking of female genitalia, sex trafficking in White Christian communities in the United States, and the historical ties between FGM/C and sex trafficking through the Red Sea Slave Trade. Additional themes include intergenerational trauma, gendered devaluation, and exploitation linked to organized networks and demand. Gaps in training, screening, and definitions hinder effective identification and response. These findings highlight the need for cross-sector training, improved screening practices, and standardized definitions. Addressing these intersections is critical for prevention, victim identification, and strengthening global responses to gender-based violence.
Presentation Objectives:
-Provide an overview of the study, including main questions, methodology, and findings, including how lived experience and survivor voices were centered throughout the research process.
-Describe the implications and/or recommendations based on the research findings, including global policy, service, and system change.