FGM-based asylum claims require expert analysis of prevalence by country, ethnic group, and region. Guinea, Somalia, Mali, Sierra Leone, and Gambia have the highest documented prevalence globally.
Claims succeed where ongoing risk exists - including daughters at risk, Type III re-infibulation, and medical complications - even where the claimant has already undergone FGM. Expert witnesses assess state protection adequacy and internal relocation feasibility.
Reports must address the specific ethnic and geographic context of the claimant, not generic national statistics alone.
Frequently asked questions
Can FGM asylum claims succeed if FGM has already occurred?
Yes. Claims can succeed based on ongoing risk of re-infibulation, daughters at risk, or medical complications requiring treatment unavailable on return. Expert witnesses address prospective risk, not only historical harm.
Which countries require FGM expert evidence most frequently?
Guinea, Somalia, Mali, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Nigeria (state-specific variation). Expert witnesses provide ethnic and regional prevalence analysis beyond national averages.