Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure that involves altering or injuring female genitalia for non-medical reasons.   It is estimated that almost 200 million women and girls worldwide have undergone some form of FGM. FGM has been recorded in 30 countries with Somaliland having one of the highest prevalence rates in the world at 98% for women and girls aged between 15 - 49 years old. Hope on the horizon documents the hard work IPPF member association SOFHA (Somaliland Family Health Association) is doing within the local community to help change minds and eventually bring an end to female genital mutilation (FGM). Slowly, but surely, attitudes are changing.

Young people face unique barriers when seeking accurate information about abortion, and in accessing abortion services. This series showcases strategies implemented by IPPF Member Associations that have successfully reduced these barriers and increased young people’s access to abortion information and services. In this short summary from Pakistan, they provide a comprehensive strategy on creating Youth Friendly Spaces, outlining the key steps needed for successful implementation and highlighting key lessons learned to consider in taking this strategy forward. This guide can be used by programme managers and implementers to help design and inform strategies to ensure that young people are enabled to access the necessary support and services they need in the event of an unwanted pregnancy.