The Forum of Islamic Thought in Mauretania has spoken out against FGM, issuing a fatwa, an Islamic ruling against the practice that affects more than 70 percent of women in this West African state. As the secretary general of the organisation made clear, FGM is not demanded by the Choran, and is in fact not allowed by Islam since it is harmful to health.

Alhtough a fatwa is not binding, it is believed to have a strong influence in communities that practice FGM for religious reasons.