Female genital mutilation (FGM), defined as any procedure altering or removing external female genitalia without medical justification, is a serious human rights violation affecting women, particularly across several African and Middle Eastern countries, where it also poses a significant public health challenge.1 The consequences of FGM are extensive, impacting both mental and reproductive health and contributing to complications like hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, such as eclampsia.1

Globally, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) has surged from 50.3 million to 75.9 million over the past five years, with climate change overtaking conflict as the primary driver in 2023.2 Climate-induced displacement exacerbates socio-economic vulnerabilities, including limited access to resources such as clean water and sanitation. These conditions heighten gender inequalities, which may indirectly perpetuate harmful practices such as FGM. Kenya’s severe drought in 2022 is one of many instances where women bore the brunt of the crisis, facing higher rates of malnutrition and dehydration. Simultaneously, there was an increase in female genital mutilation, child marriage, and gender-based violence.3