04/03/2009 (Agence Europe) - It is expected that, in Strasbourg on Thursday 12 March, the European Parliament will once again “roundly” condemn female genital mutilation (FGM). It is likely once again to call on the Commission and member states to draw up an “overall strategy and action plans” to get rid of FGM in the EU and provide the means required - laws and administrative provisions, prevention systems, educational and social measures - to enable victims to be properly protected. On 12 March, the EP will vote on the report by Cristiana Muscardini (UEN, Italy) on genital mutilation. Every year, 180,000 women who have emigrated to Europe are victims or potential victims of this practice. (L.C./transl.rt)