A/HRC/27/36 IV. Interventions and responses by representatives of States, non-governmental organizations and national human rights institutions 19. In the ensuing discussion, there was widespread agreement that that female genital mutilation constituted a serious violation of women’s and girls’ human rights and could not be justified by any cultural or religious reason. It was acknowledged that the practice was a challenging issue to address, because it varied across cultures and countries, and the reasons for practicing it diverse. It did have, however, common underlying factors, in particular gender discrimination and gender stereotypes. Speakers agreed that, as a result of the concerted efforts of several stakeholders, a decrease had been seen in the prevalence of female genital mutilation. It was important to ensure that the practice continue to decrease; for that reason, States had to take steps in accordance with international human rights standards. A number of speakers referred to legislation criminalizing the practice. In addition, it was important to raise awareness of the fact that female genital mutilation was a violation of women’s and girls’ rights with no health benefits, but rather serious health consequences. Incorporating the issue of female genital mutilation into policies and initiatives to combat gender-based violence was also important to decrease the prevalence of the practice. 20. The role of the media was also particularly important, as was the need for information and educational programmes. Speakers agreed that action should be taken at multiple levels; specifically, efforts should be community based, focused on behavioural change and community action, and involve traditional and religious leaders. The training of “cutters” to engage in other income-generating programmes was also an important strategy that should be pursued. 21. A number of State representatives provided examples of good practices in several areas, including national and regional legislation criminalizing the practice, plans of action, national campaigns that involved community leaders, including migrant communities, as well as efforts to promote access to justice for women and girl victims of female genital mutilation. With regard to resource mobilization and international support, several speakers referred to bilateral support in addition to the financing of programmes by United Nations agencies. Speakers provided examples of good practices in combating the practice among migrant and refugee communities, such as specialized units in the police force, inclusion of the issue of female genital mutilation in family violence programmes, raising awareness in migrant communities, support for specialized organizations, and the adoption of targeted plans of action. The important contribution made by civil society organizations and United Nations agencies and entities in combating the practice was repeatedly highlighted and welcomed by speakers. V. Concluding remarks 22. In their concluding remarks, the panellists welcomed the consensus among States concerning the need to eliminate female genital mutilation and on the action required to address it. 23. Panellists made several recommendations. At the national level, they recommended a greater focus on education for young people on female genital mutilation; broader dissemination of international human rights instruments; the development of national plans of action based on multi-sectoral approaches; support from communities and local role models in advocacy campaigns; and the involvement of men and boys. Furthermore, it was also important to focus on regional and national 7