Monthly Archives: January 2022

February 6—International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)Female genital mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights, the health and the integrity of girls and women. In addition, the medical risks, including severe blood loss, infections, pain, later complications during childbirth, and possible long-term negative psychological effects, are well recognized.  Although primarily concentrated in 30 countries in Africa and the Middle East, female genital mutilation is a universal problem and continues to persist amongst immigrant populations living in [...]

January 1—World Day of Peace 2022 marks the 55th annual World Day of Peace.  The theme is “Education, work and dialogue between generations: tools for building lasting peace.” In this year’s address, the Pope Francis outlines three paths for building a lasting peace:  promoting dialogue between generations, investing in education, and improving labor conditions.  Francis observes that in recent years, there has been a significant reduction in education funding, while military spending has escalated, now surpassing even cold war levels.  He calls for educational spending to be viewed as an investment, rather than as an expenditure.  This investment in our [...]