evidence: How many women and girls are affected? [...] Women around the world are speaking out about their experiences and advocating for change. [...] The Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) recognizes that violence against women is a widespread phenomenon. It states, "In a number of countries, harmful practices meant to control women's sexuality have led to great suffering. Among them is the practice of female genital cutting, which is a violation of basic rights and a major lifelong risk to women's health" (para 7.35).