The Community Court of Justice of ECOWAS delivered a landmark judgment, finding the Government of Sierra Leone in violation of regional and international obligations for failing to explicitly criminalize Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The Court affirmed that Sierra Leone’s inaction contravenes key instruments including the Maputo Protocol and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child ratified by the Sierra Leone.

In a unanimous decision on 8 July 2025, the Court ruled that: FGM constitutes “one of the worst forms of violence against women,” equating it to an act meeting the threshold of torture. Sierra Leone failed to bring its legal framework in compliance with international obligations, and the government’s failure to criminalize FGM violates essential rights to dignity, bodily integrity, and protection under the law. Sierra Leone is ordered to legislate against FGM, investigate and prosecute perpetrators, and compensate the survivor, providing $30,000 in damages.

Recall that ACSRG’s recommendations to the Chairman Legislative Committee, and read in Sierra Leone parliament, November 2024, urged the Sierra Leone Parliament to pass the Child Rights Bill 2024 into law as it seeks to compliment the values enshrined in the best interest of the child. Promote education as identified by this administration’s flagship project and discourage interventions that can negatively impact this goal.

Fatima Maada Bio of Sierra Leone — Mrs Fatima Maada Bio First Lady of Sierra Leone

ACSRG welcomes this historic ruling by the ECOWAS Court as “a major victory—not only for the survivor who courageously brought the case forward, but for millions of women and girls affected by this harmful practice. It sets a legal and moral precedent for all ECOWAS member states to align national laws with their international human rights commitments. According to John Ede, Director,ACSRG, “this ruling is a powerful affirmation that cultural traditions cannot override the rights to bodily integrity and protection from harm. We urge Sierra Leone’s government to swiftly translate this judgement into concrete action—legal reform, survivor support services, and community education—to eradicate FGM once and for all.”

ACSRG calls on Sierra Leone Government through parliament

•Immediate legislative action to criminalize FGM in Sierra Leone’s penal code.

•Implementation of survivor-centred support programs, including legal recourse and psychosocial care.

•Regional advocacy and collaboration to ensure all ECOWAS states comply with this precedent and uphold women’s rights.

The African Civil Society Reference Group Inc., a leading platform advocating for women and children across Africa, stands in solidarity with all Africans—on the continent and in the diaspora. We celebrate those working relentlessly to restore hope, dignity, and prosperity. Let us continue to amplify voices, advance equity, and create a world where every woman, man, girl, and boy can live free from harm, fear, and injustice—and rise to fulfill their destiny.