Sean Callaghan

Sean Callaghan is an internationally recognised researcher specialising in Female Genital Mutilation, harmful practices and social norms. As Chief Research Officer, Orchid Project and Senior Researcher, the AHA Foundation, he has led major research programmes examining FGM across more than 80 countries. His work has informed safeguarding policy, programme design and prevention strategies across government, academic and non-governmental sectors, and he is currently completing doctoral research exploring the impact of migration and acculturation on FGM risk within diaspora communities.

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Sean combines deep academic expertise with extensive international experience across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. His work helps organisations move beyond assumptions and develop evidence-based responses to safeguarding challenges. Through Indaba, he supports clients to strengthen research, policy development, programme design and strategic decision-making in relation to harmful practices and social change.