High-level event on the access and use of mobile network operator data in Maldives _ Opening Remarks by UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Hao Zhang

Minister of State for Homeland Security & Technology. H.E Dr. Mohamed Kinaanath, Chief executive of Communications Authority of Maldives, Mr. Ilyas Ahmed, Ms. Gerttu Pilsas, Chief Executive Officer of  Positium, Ms. Esperanza Magpantay, Senior Statistician of International Telecommunication Union 

Distinguished representatives from the Government of the Maldives, colleagues from the Communications Authority of Maldives and the Maldives Bureau of Statistics, partners, UN colleagues, and esteemed experts from ITU and Positium, ladies and gentlemen, 

A very good morning to you all.

On behalf of the United Nations in the Maldives, it is my pleasure to welcome you to this High-Level Event on the Access and Use of Mobile Network Operator Data in the Maldives. We are delighted to see strong representation from government institutions, private sector partners, global experts, and UN agencies. Your presence reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the country’s data ecosystem as a foundation for sustainable development.

Today’s discussion is timely. The Maldives is experiencing rapid digital transformation. One, that is reshaping how people live, travel, work, and interact with public services. Harnessing the potential of this transformation means ensuring that the country has access to timely, reliable, and disaggregated data that can guide planning and policymaking. This is at the heart of the UN’s support to the Maldives under the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. Strengthening national data capabilities is foundational to accelerating progress across all priority areas, from climate resilience to digital inclusion, social protection, and equitable development.

The Data For Now Initiative, launched globally by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed in 2019, was designed precisely to support countries in leveraging innovative data sources and methodologies. Mobile Network Operator data is one of the most powerful examples of such innovation. These data—when used responsibly and with safeguards—can provide near real-time insights into mobility patterns, population distribution, tourism flows, internal migration, and the digital divide. These insights are indispensable for the Maldives, a nation shaped by geography, mobility, and climate vulnerability.

I would like to recognize the Maldives Bureau of Statistics, the national project owner of this initiative, for its leadership and dedication and Communication Authority of Maldive’s commitment to this work. This work is fully aligned with national priorities, including the Government’s efforts to modernize public services, strengthen digital governance, and enhance evidence-based policymaking. It also aligns with the Digital Maldives Vision and the ongoing reforms to strengthen national statistics systems.

As we look ahead, partnerships will be essential. Today’s event brings together all the key actors who can make this initiative a success. I would like to especially acknowledge Dhiraagu and Ooredoo for their openness and commitment to exploring the use of anonymized and aggregated MNO data for national development purposes. 

Allow me to offer three reflections as we embark on today’s discussions:

First, this is a moment to develop consensus on how MNO data can strengthen the country’s statistical system and support SDG monitoring, particularly in areas where traditional data sources are limited or costly.

Second, this is an opportunity to outline concrete next steps, including determining way of working, strengthening technical capacity within MBS and key ministries to effectively analyse and use MNO data, and putting in place robust ethical, legal, and data-protection frameworks to ensure that all data is used securely and responsibly.

Third, let us remember that data is ultimately about people. It is about ensuring that policies are inclusive, that services reach those most in need, and that decision-making reflects the realities of communities across all islands.

As we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ membership in the United Nations and the 80th anniversary of the UN, the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office—together with UN agencies and ITU—reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Government of Maldives and all partners in advancing this important agenda. We stand ready to facilitate technical cooperation, capacity-building, and the sharing of global knowledge and best practices.

I am confident that with today’s discussions and with the strong partnership we see in this room, the Maldives can become a regional leader in harnessing innovative data for sustainable development.

Thank you once again for your commitment and participation. I look forward to the productive conversations ahead.