First-Ever FGM Conspiracy Conviction Case in England and Wales
In a landmark legal decision, Emad Kaky, a former PhD student, was sentenced to 4.5 years in prison for conspiring to commit female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage. This conviction, the first for FGM conspiracy in England and Wales, is a breakthrough in the battle to end one of the most brutal forms of child abuse.
The Case Against Emad Kaky
Kaky, living in Nottingham at the time, planned for a young girl to be taken to Iraq. There, she would have been subjected to FGM and forced into marriage. Fortunately, a brave witness intervened, helping the girl return safely to the UK. Kaky’s involvement was revealed through messages on his phone, which showed he had booked and paid for the trip.
Despite his academic background, Kaky’s actions highlight that FGM and forced marriage affect all levels of society. These practices are not confined to specific communities. While FGM has been illegal in the UK since 1985, it is estimated that 137,000 women and girls in the UK are at risk. This conviction reminds us of the need for continued action to protect those in danger.
Aneeta Prem’s Response to FGM Conspiracy Conviction
Aneeta Prem, founder of Freedom Charity, welcomed the ruling: “We must protect the most vulnerable from FGM and forced marriage. At Freedom Charity, we see this conviction as a vital step towards ending these barbaric practices. FGM is the cruellest form of child abuse, and we must do much more to stop it.”
Legal and Cultural Impact
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) demonstrated that FGM is illegal under both UK and Iraqi law, allowing them to prosecute Kaky for conspiring to commit the crime. This case proves that UK law can hold individuals accountable even when FGM is planned to happen abroad. The CPS has shown that no one can evade justice by arranging FGM in another country.
However, Freedom Charity knows that legal action alone is not enough. Education and awareness are key to stopping these practices. That’s why we launched the Red Triangle campaign, encouraging people to wear the Red Triangle badge to show support for those at risk of FGM.
The Role of Education
We also lead the “Not In My Name” campaign, which urges men and boys to speak out against FGM and forced marriage. Challenging these harmful cultural norms is essential to stopping the abuse.
Freedom Charity provides PSHE-accredited lesson plans to schools, helping young people understand the dangers of FGM and forced marriage. My books, But It’s Not Fair and Cut Flowers, give teachers the resources they need to educate children about these critical issues. Educating the next generation is crucial in eradicating these practices for good.
A Call to Action
This conviction is a victory, but there is still much to do. Thousands of girls remain at risk of FGM and forced marriage, both in the UK and abroad. While legal progress is important, changing attitudes in society is just as vital.
Freedom Charity will continue its fight to protect every girl from these horrific abuses. You can help by wearing the Red Triangle, spreading the message, and supporting our work to protect vulnerable girls.
Support. Donate. Eradicate.
For more information, visit:
www.freedomcharity.org.uk
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For more information, visit:
www.freedomcharity.org.uk