Gambian lawmakers have upheld the 2015 ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), rejecting a bill which sought to decriminalise the practice, after months of heated debate and international pressure. The bill argued that female circumcision is a deep-rooted cultural and religious practice. Despite passing a second reading in March with minimal opposition, it faced a strong backlash from rights groups, who labeled FGM a harmful violation against women and girls. The 2015 ban penalises FGM, with up to three years in prison. On 15 July lawmakers overwhelmingly rejected each clause of the bill, and the Speaker halted its progress. FGM, which involves the removal or injury of female genitalia, can cause severe health issues, including infections, bleeding, and psychological problems. The Gambia has one of the highest FGM rates, with 73% of women aged 15 to 49 affected.