Gedeon Richter Media Empowering Change: Mali's Bold Move Against FGM and Richter's Dedication to Women's Well-being
Empowering Change: Mali's Bold Move Against FGM and Richter's Dedication to Women's Well-being
14/08/2025
In a historic move, Mali has recently passed legislation criminalizing female genital mutilation (FGM), marking a significant milestone in the protection of women's rights and health. This breakthrough comes after years of tireless advocacy by international and local organizations, including the Gedeon Richter House of Hope program.

FGM, a practice deeply rooted in cultural traditions, has long been a silent epidemic affecting millions of women and girls worldwide. In Mali alone, a staggering 73% of women have undergone some form of genital mutilation, often between the ages of 5 and 12. The World Health Organization has consistently highlighted the severe physical and psychological consequences of this practice.

The new law in Mali sends a clear message: human rights cannot be violated in the name of tradition. Perpetrators now face 5-10 years in prison, with sentences up to 20 years for severe cases resulting in death. This legislative action is a crucial step towards ending a practice that has caused immeasurable suffering.

At Gedeon Richter Plc., we believe that healthcare discussions must include human dignity. Women's rights, education, and bodily autonomy are key issues that no global pharmaceutical company committed to women's health can remain neutral on. Our House of Hope program in Bamako, Mali, launched in early 2025, is a testament to this commitment.

The House of Hope reaches nearly 300 women and girls annually from various regions of Mali. Local doctors, lawyers, psychologists, and counsellors provide support, conduct community events, school awareness programs, and women's rights workshops. This holistic approach addresses not just the medical aspects of FGM but also the social and legal dimensions.

As Zsuzsa Beke, Head of Group-level PR, CSR and Government Relations at Richter Gedeon Plc., states: "Richter has always been committed to improving women's quality of life, not only in the pharmaceutical industry but also in the field of social responsibility. By establishing the House of Hope, we wanted to provide a complex solution and signal that change is possible if we initiate dialogue with local communities."

The journey towards ending FGM is far from over. However, Mali's new law, combined with grassroots efforts like the House of Hope, represents a significant step forward. It's a reminder that with persistence, compassion, and collaboration, we can create a world where every woman and girl can live with dignity and control over her own body.

As we celebrate this progress, let's recommit ourselves to the ongoing fight for women's health and rights worldwide. Together, we can break the silence and build a future free from harmful practices like FGM.