Opening Remarks of the UN Resident Coordinator a.i, Mr. Bradley James Busetto at the Launch of “Migration and Displacement Needs Assessment in the Maldives”

MRC Secretary General Fathimath Himya

Head of migration from Italian Red Cross Francesca Basile

Distinguished guests from 

The Government of Maldives

Diplomatic Corps in Maldives

Civil Society Organizations

Private sector partners

Academia

And my dear colleagues from UN

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Assalam Alaikum and a very good morning to you all.

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I am honoured to be invited to launch the “Migration and Displacement Needs Assessment in the Maldives”. It is a unique opportunity for me to discuss a topic of great significance to the Maldives: migration and its related human and humanitarian rights which needs to be addressed through evidence-based decision making. 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Maldives has experienced both internal and external migration patterns that have shaped its demographic, economic, and social landscape. According to the latest census, while the total population stands over 515,000, the migrant population accounts for over 132,000, amounting to 26% of the total population. In addition, there are 63,000 migrants estimated to be living in Maldives that are undocumented. Migrant workers play a crucial role in the Maldivian economy, particularly in the tourism industry, which is the country's primary source of revenue. They contribute to infrastructure development, hospitality services, and other sectors critical for the economic and social development.

As a small island nation, the Maldives faces unique challenges in promoting and protecting human rights. Migrants, displaced individuals, along with their families and host communities, often encounter various humanitarian needs. The rights of migrants need to be looked at in a holistic manner in policy formulation and developmental decision-making. Especially since, those persons lacking proper documentation or in irregular situations may face heightened risks due to both formal and informal obstacles hindering their access to vital services, protection, and assistance. In certain situations, authorities might face limitations or be unwilling to aid undocumented migrants.

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

The assessment we are launching today provides insights into the gaps on the needs of migrants which can assist in better planning and delivering services to the migrant communities. It can also be a reference point to help understand provision of services for different organizations and service providers, including the development and design of targeted programming. 

I am certain that information gathered through such needs assessment can help National Societies like Maldives Red Crescent, Government Bodies, Civil Society Organizations and other humanitarian actors to understand the risks faced by migrants and displaced people as well as people’s strengths. It can also help increase advocacy efforts, build and strengthen partnerships, and ensure that no one is left behind in humanitarian responses. 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

One of the main premises of results-based planning is this: “what gets measured gets done”. So, assessing the needs, understanding the root causes are imperative for collective effort to find solutions and alleviate the struggles faced by migrants in vulnerable situations.

With my background in humanitarian context in the region and elsewhere, this issue resonates with me strongly. I personally cannot emphasize enough the importance of strong, consistent partnerships to tackle this issue. 

In conclusion, I reiterate importance of balancing the benefits and challenges of migration.  It is through careful management and policy responses that we can ensure sustainable development and the well-being of both migrant workers and local communities. I take this opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of UN in Maldives to promote human rights, including those attributable to migrants and leaving no one behind. 

Thank you and Shukriya.