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<p>The British Government is aware of the harmful practice of breast ironing in some
Commonwealth and other African countries. There is little reliable data on the number
of girls suffering this form of abuse, but we strongly condemn violence against women
and girls in all its forms.</p><p>The Government places gender equality at the heart
of our bilateral development programming and works through diplomatic and development
channels to tackle the causes and drivers of violence against women and girls as a
matter of priority. The manifestations of violence may change but it is critical to
address the structural causes of violence, including harmful beliefs and attitudes.</p><p>In
Cameroon, Kenya and Nigeria we are continuing to engage with governments and local
communities to support the rights of women and girls, including ending harmful practices
which constitute violence against women and girls. In Cameroon our High Commission
has been working closely with the Minister of Women’s Empowerment and the Family on
campaigns in coordination with local religious leaders, to raise awareness and support
community-led change to end the harmful practice of breast ironing.</p>
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