United Nations in Maldives

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Publication

28 November 2024

Common Country Analysis 2024

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Press Release

22 March 2023

MALDIVES INTEGRATED NATIONAL FINANCING FRAMEWORK (INFF)

Malé, March 21, 2023: The Maldives Minister of Finance has formally endorsed the Maldives Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF). The Maldives INFF delivers a comprehensive financing strategy on climate action and provides a set of highly action-oriented strategies to unlock both domestic and external resources; from the private sector, international financing institutions, philanthropic, and impact and cause-driven sources of financing, to augment and scale-up existing public sources of financing towards climate and social sector financing needs. The strategy aims to support the financing of the Maldives Strategic Action Plan (2019-2023), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and other national and sectoral development plans to enable the achievement of the national and international climate and sustainable development commitments made by the country. The INFF is a core priority identified in the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2022-2026 between the UN and the Government of Maldives. The financing strategy puts achieving gender-equality at the heart of all financing actions, as an important cross-cutting theme and provides specific policy options to ensure that the actions proposed under the strategy are gender-sensitive. Following the launch of the INFF, Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ameer announced the intention to establish the Maldives Climate Finance Hub (MCFH) within the Ministry of Finance, with the technical assistance of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), as the primary mechanism to implement the financing strategy and provide overall technical expertise to the Ministry of Finance and other relevant sector ministries and agencies on climate finance matters. An Advisory Board will be established with representation from national and international stakeholders, to provide advice and guidance to the MCFH. The INFF is a global UN initiative being implemented in more than 86 countries worldwide to finance National Development Plans (NDPs) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). There are currently 18 Small Developing Island States (SIDS) developing their own INFFs and today, the Maldives becomes the first SIDS country to develop and formally endorse an INFF and financing strategy. Speaking at the INFF launch, Minister Ameer stated, “This financing strategy will advance the Maldives climate agenda, to transform our economy away from fossil fuel dependency, strengthen resilience to external shocks, and drive existing and new investments towards sustainable and inclusive growth.” The development of the Maldives INFF began under the leadership of the Ministry of Finance in June 2020. Through a United Nations Joint Programme led by the UN Resident Coordinator, UNDP Maldives provided technical advisory to the Ministry of Finance to develop the INFF. The process of INFF development was spearheaded by a high-level Steering Committee consisting of 13 Government agencies, co-chaired by the Honorable Minister of Finance of the Maldives, Ibrahim Ameer and by the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Catherine Haswell. The INFF is the result of an extensive consultative process whereby, stakeholders from public, private, NGOs, industry bodies and IFIs provided support and input. United Nations Resident Coordinator Catherine Haswell noted the importance of the delivery of this work, in the context of intergovernmental negotiations for the next COP on Climate Action in Egypt in November 2023, the currently ongoing meeting on the Global Goal for Adaptation (GGA) being hosted by the Maldives, the 2023 UN Water Conference (22-24 March), and the SDG Summit in New York in September. Moreover, it is a critical piece which demonstrates the expertise and role of the UN in upper middle-income countries as a provider of integrated policy advice with the potential to unlock a series of portfolios which can accelerate delivery of the 2030 Agenda. UNDP Resident Representative in the Maldives, Enrico Gaveglia congratulated Minister Ameer, and stated, “You have often been confronted with denial of market access because of unfavorable demographic accounting or the so-called economies of scale. I can assure you, if we all manage to put a value tag to your natural resources, you’d leapfrog to be the holder of a global natural asset that shall be safeguarded with all our efforts simply because it benefits all – you in Maldives and elsewhere.” This collaboration between United Nations and the Ministry of Finance continues the value-added joint effort in enhancing the parallel implementation of the Maldives’ development agenda, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Gender-Responsive Integrated Climate Financing Strategy endorsed by the Government of Maldives can be accessed at https://www.finance.gov.mv/public/attachments/lzyzZHIHy0ZWB7Yl17aw16YkFhE5o8DfVxThmruO.pdf

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Publication

30 June 2023

The Common Country Analysis (CCA) Maldives - June 2023

The Common Country Analysis (CCA) is designed to reflect the United Nations integrated, forward-looking and evidence-based joint analysis of the context for sustainable development in the Maldives, in view of achieving the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and as a basis for the UN programmatic support through the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The analysis is premised on the overall commitment to Leaving No One Behind (LNOB), the UN Charter and international norms and standards. This report represents the first building block of the analysis, which will involve a continuous process of revision and adaptation as the context evolves and new evidence is made available. Four main data collection methodologies were utilized in the preparation of this document: 1. Analytical inputs from UN entities, resident and non- resident, with reference to their specific areas of expertise and mandate. These were collected through two main tools: mandate-specific data collection on topics of relevance to the agencies and a questionnaire on cross-cutting issues to capture entities’ perspectives on areas considered to be outside their core mandate, identifying synergies and trade-offs. 2. Semi-structured interviews with key informants. Interviewees included resident and non-resident UN entities, including those outside of the current United Nations Country Team (UNCT), International Financial Institutions (IFIs), government officials and other stakeholders. 3. A risk matrix through which UNCT member entities were surveyed to provide a quantitative assessment of the major risks and their potential impact on the future sustainable development of the country. 4. Desk review of existing country and sectoral studies and retrieval of statistical data from national and international sources, including government plans and reports. Data and information have been disaggregated to the extent possible. The CCA highlights the data gaps, noting the need to strengthen capacity to collect data and continuously fill the gaps through future assessment. Targeted analysis has been undertaken by each of the UN agencies in line with their mandate. The greatest limitation to the CCA has been gaps in data to support comprehensive thematic analyses, or to map national realities against SDG targets. Secondly, there is a severe limitation in the availability of data disaggregated geographically, by gender, age, and other relevant characteristics in the Maldives. Some of the guiding principles used in this document include the concept of Leaving No One Behind (LNOB) and the Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA). Other principles that are reflected throughout the document are a focus on gender analysis and women’s empowerment, as well as the pursuit of (environmental) sustainability, associated with building up resilience. The report is meant to be a concise, yet comprehensive, overview of the country’s challenges and opportunities to achieve the 2030 Agenda. Particular focus was placed on identifying intersectoral and transformative opportunities that could be seized for future joint planning and to unlock the country’s potential to achieve the SDGs. With less than a decade remaining until 2030, the time for action is now and all sectors in society need to be engaged. The preliminary findings of the CCA published in March 2020 were validated by UN and national stakeholders at a workshop. Extensive comments on the draft CCA were also made by the regional Peer Support Group. With the COVID-19 pandemic and given how it has significantly impacted the Maldives, UNCT decided that the CCA would need to be significantly rewritten before UNSDCF process starts. This work was done internally, under the Resident Coordinator Office (RCO)’s facilitation, with inputs from all resident and non-resident UN agencies in the Maldives. The process took place in the last quarter of 2020 and the final version was endorsed by UNCT in January 2021. It is this version of the CCA that formed the basis of our analysis for the development of the UNSDCF. UN agencies, funds and programmes based in the Maldives and beyond contributed to this review. The CCA is a living document, updated regularly as required3, to assure that the UNSDCF the UN’s analysis of key issues remains current. The present report is being updated with new data / analysis we have gathered during the year and ensure that our analysis is still up to date.

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10 November 2025

United in diversity: the Asia-Pacific region’s path to inclusive social development

The Second World Summit for Social Development, held in Qatar earlier this month, marked an important moment for global efforts to advance inclusive, equitable and sustainable development. Throughout the Summit, contributions from the Asia-Pacific region demonstrated that diversity is not a barrier but a strength in crafting people-centred solutions.Countries showcased innovative and scalable approaches to social protection, intergenerational solidarity, care economy transformation and poverty reduction. These efforts, rooted in local realities and scaled through regional cooperation supported by ESCAP, offer valuable lessons for the world. Climate resilient and inclusive social protectionSocial protection is a powerful tool for reducing poverty and inequality. With the right investments and reforms, it has even greater potential to drive inclusive and equitable development in the future as countries face added risks due to climate change. Indonesia’s large household cash transfer programme, Program Keluarga Harapan, has helped improve households’ livelihood capital and coping capacities in the face of climate change events, especially those relying on climate-sensitive sectors such as food systems or other natural resource-dependent activities. Public work programmes, such as the Fiji for Jobs 2.0 or Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, help rural households adapt to climate shocks and improve livelihoods while creating climate resilient community infrastructure. For many countries in the region, top-ups to non-contributory cash transfers are often used to swiftly extend emergency relief to large numbers of households. In Nepal, forecast-based financing allows the release of funding for pre-defined early actions, including social protection transfers, before a disaster occurs. This reduces the impact on vulnerable communities.Intergenerational solidarityDemographic shifts are reshaping societies across Asia and the Pacific. Ageing populations, youth, migration and changing family structures demand new approaches to social cohesion and equity. The Maldives, in partnership with ESCAP, marked a major milestone in addressing population ageing by launching its National Policy in September 2025, presenting a comprehensive framework to promote active and healthy ageing. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic also recently adopted a decree and a policy on ageing and is now working to put them into practice. These recent developments demonstrate the commitment of countries in Asia and the Pacific in recognizing that today’s youth are tomorrow’s older persons, that ageing should be viewed over the life course and that intergenerational solidarity benefits all. The ESCAP repository of policies on ageing and related database of good practice support countries in sharing experiences and contribute to more effective regional cooperation.Transforming the care economyValuing unpaid care and domestic work and investing in the care economy are central to building inclusive, resilient economies and achieving sustainable development. Malaysia's Selangor state became the country's first state to adopt a comprehensive care economy policy in November 2024, addressing the entire care ecosystem. From training home-based caregivers to childcare subsidies, the policy demonstrates how subnational governments can transform care through integrated multi-stakeholder action. The Philippines offers a strong example of embedding care into local budgets to reach the most vulnerable women at the community level. Municipalities have pioneered local care ordinances that mandate an annual allocation for care programmes, mainstreamed into social welfare and gender initiatives. This approach is now being replicated by thirty local government units. The Republic of Korea expanded its parental leave system in 2024 with the "6+6 scheme," providing enhanced wage compensation for the first six months when both parents take leave within the child's first year of life, encouraging fathers' participation and shared caregiving responsibility.Regional collaboration: scaling solutions across bordersOne of the most powerful messages from the Summit was the importance of regional cooperation. As the examples show, the Asia-Pacific region’s diversity has not hindered progress, rather, it has enriched it. Frameworks such as the Action Plan to Strengthen Regional Collaboration on Social Protection have facilitated resource mobilization and knowledge exchange.The Doha Political Declaration proposes a regional mechanism to monitor commitments made at the Summit, ensuring accountability and continuous learning. The region’s emphasis on multilateralism and solidarity offers a model for global cooperation in tackling shared challenges. ESCAP is fully committed to supporting the regional follow-up of the Declaration. Building on its established platforms, including the Committee on Social Development and the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development, ESCAP will continue to provide inclusive spaces for dialogue, review and policy coherence aligned with the 2030 Agenda and reflecting regional priorities, including on leaving no one behind, gender equality, decent work, social protection and intergenerational solidarity. ESCAP will also continue to strengthen regional capacity to collect disaggregated social development data and support national statistical systems to monitor progress and inform policy, helping ensure that progress toward the 2030 Agenda is accurately tracked and gaps are identified. The Asia-Pacific region leading the way on social developmentThis region has shown that sustainable and inclusive social development is not a distant goal. Rather, it is achievable through inclusive, locally grounded, regionally coordinated and forward-looking action. From care to climate, from youth to ageing, the region’s solutions are shaping a future where no one is left behind.As the world reflects on the outcomes of the Second World Summit for Social Development, Asian and Pacific contributions stand out not only for their innovation but for their deep commitment to equity, resilience and human dignity. The journey continues, led by a region that understands that development must be for all, by all. Author: Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)

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30 October 2025

From Infectious Diseases to NCDs: Maldives Charts a New Public Health Future

As part of celebrations marking 60 years of the Maldives’ membership in the United Nations and the UN’s 80th anniversary, the United Nations in the Maldives, in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, WHO Maldives, and Villa College, hosted the second panel discussion in a series on the country’s public health journey. Titled “From Infectious Diseases to NCDs: Reimagining Public Health in the Maldives,” the discussion brought together distinguished panelists from government, civil society, academia, and UN agencies, alongside students and youth participants. The event highlighted the Maldives’ remarkable progress in public health and explored strategies to address the growing challenge of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In his opening remarks, UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Hao Zhang reflected on the Maldives’ six-decade-long partnership with the UN and WHO, emphasizing that the country’s public health achievements—from malaria, leprosy, and polio elimination to rising life expectancy over 80 years—demonstrate resilience, collaboration, and sustained investment in the well-being of its people, despite the geographic challenges of a dispersed island nation. Panelist Mohamed Ismail Fulhu, a veteran public health professional born in 1948, shared insights from over 40 years in health administration and social protection. With senior roles at the Ministry of Health and the National Social Protection Agency, and experience as a Member of Parliament (1983–1999), Mr. Fulhu highlighted the Maldives’ early engagement with WHO and key milestones, including the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and significant improvements in maternal and child health. He is also the author of 20 books on health and Maldivian history and recipient of the National Award for Public Service (1992) and National Award of Honor (2011). Government representative Mr. Mohamed Hassan, Deputy Director of the Health Protection Agency, Ministry of Health, noted that NCDs unlike infectious diseases, lack immediate fear, making prevention and behavior change more challenging. He emphasized that the rise of NCDs is linked to globalization and lifestyle changes, and that early health efforts often focused more on treatment than prevention. Citing the Faafu Atoll Primary Health Care Demonstration Site (FADS), Mr. Hassan underscored that early diagnosis, registration, and treatment are essential for managing NCDs effectively at the community level. Dr. Abdul Malik, Co-Founder and President of the Maldives NCD Alliance, described NCDs as a “silent epidemic” driven by modern lifestyles and reduced physical activity. He stressed the importance of early detection, regular screenings, and supportive environments, highlighting that strengthening primary healthcare requires multi-sectoral collaboration involving health authorities, education, youth, trade, and civil society. Using the Faafu Atoll project as a model, he illustrated how integrating NCD, cancer, and mental health services at the community level reinforces that proactive health care is a shared responsibility. WHO Representative Ms. Payden highlighted the Maldives’ 60-year partnership with WHO and its achievements as the first country to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis, HIV, and syphilis. She emphasized that NCDs now account for 70% of deaths, with risk factors including tobacco use, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy diets. Citing the Faafu Atoll Model, she highlighted the importance of accessible services, early detection, primary prevention, and digitalized medical records. Ms. Payden called for coordinated, multi-sectoral efforts across health, agriculture, finance, trade, education, local governments, and individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles and act as role models for the nation’s future health. Youth representative Mr. Hussain Junaan from Villa College shared the challenges young people face in tackling NCDs and his personal journey in managing mental stress while embracing a healthier lifestyle. He described using the STRAVA app to motivate peers through running challenges, which also encouraged healthier eating habits. Mr. Junaan urged youth to leverage technology, share inspiring health stories on social media, and balance screen time with active outdoor living. In her closing remarks, Mariyam Midhfa Naeem, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted that the key lesson from the Maldives’ public health journey is that early action, united efforts, and people-centered approaches are essential. She outlined priorities for the future, including disease prevention, strengthening primary healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyles, expanding mental health literacy, and using data and technology effectively, while encouraging youth to take an active role in advancing public health initiatives. The discussion concluded with a call to action: as the Maldives shifts from combating infectious diseases to addressing NCDs, sustained innovation, investment in healthier environments, and youth empowerment will be crucial to ensuring well-being across all islands. The event also underscored the enduring value of multilateral partnerships, highlighting the Maldives as a leading example among Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

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27 October 2025

Launch of ‘Hushiyaaru’ – Maldives’ National Platform for Disaster Preparedness and Risk Communication

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Maldives, has launched Hushiyaaru website — the Maldives’ first national platform for disaster preparedness and risk communication.The Hushiyaaru platform serves as a one-stop digital hub providing timely, multilingual early warning alerts and practical resources to help every community in the Maldives stay informed and safe. The platform offers hazard-specific guidelines, awareness videos, downloadable posters, and toolkits, consolidating essential information to strengthen resilience and empower people to take informed action before, during, and after emergencies.Accessible at www.hushiyaaru.mv, the platform can be explored in five languages. It has been designed to ensure inclusive access, particularly for persons with disabilities. The official launch of Hushiyaaru took place at a national event led by the NDMA to mark the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDRR Day) which took place on 17 October 2025. During the event, UNDP, along with several other national partners in the disaster risk reduction space, showcased their ongoing contributions to disaster risk reduction, preparedness, and emergency response across the Maldives.“NDMA is committed to uniting all stakeholders to strengthen disaster risk reduction efforts. In alignment with the Priority 4 of the Maldives Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy 2024–2030 – Empowering Communities for Effective Response – Hushiyaaru campaign combines education, outreach, and engagement across all sectors in both traditional and digital platforms. Initiated as a joint effort with the Maldivian Red Crescent, this campaign aims to build resilient communities across Maldives,” stated Hisan Hassan, Chief Executive of NDMA. “Hushiyaaru represents a major step forward in making disaster preparedness accessible to every community, and every island,” said Andan Cheema, UNDP Resident Representative in the Maldives. “By centralizing early warnings and preparedness resources, we aim to empower people to act early, reduce risk, and build a more resilient Maldives.”The Hushiyaaru platform is made possible through generous contributions from the Governments of Denmark, Luxembourg and South Korea via UNDP’s Funding Windows. As UNDP's primary mechanism for flexible and pooled thematic funding, Funding Windows enables UNDP to respond swiftly and comprehensively to needs and emerging challenges across the world. This article is first published at UNDP Maldives website on Launch of ‘Hushiyaaru’ – Maldives’ National Platform for Disaster Preparedness and Risk CommunicationTo learn more about the works of UNDP Maldives Please visit | Maldives United Nations Development Programme

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17 October 2025

Maldives achieves historic milestone with triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission

A historic milestone for children and families – Maldives has become the first country in the world to achieve Triple Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission (EMTCT) of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, certified by the World Health Organization (WHO).This remarkable achievement means every child born in Maldives now has a greater chance at a healthy, infection-free start in life.A national commitment to every mother and every childFor years, Maldives has invested in strong maternal and child health services – from universal antenatal screening and timely treatment to safe delivery practices and comprehensive postnatal care.Receiving the certification from WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Minister of Health, H.E. Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim noted, “This recognition reflects our national pride and shared commitment to leave no mother or child behind.”“Every child has the right to be born free from infection and to grow up healthy and strong,” said Dr. Edward Addai, UNICEF Representative to Maldives. “This achievement is a powerful reminder of what’s possible through leadership, partnership, and a relentless focus on equity and quality care.” UNICEF’s role: supporting every step of the journeyFrom the earliest stages of the EMTCT journey, UNICEF Maldives worked alongside the Government of Maldives, WHO, and UNAIDS to make this vision a reality.As a member of the National Validation Committee (NVC), UNICEF provided technical support throughout the validation process, reviewing data, drafting the national report, and ensuring women, children, and vulnerable populations were central to the analysis and recommendations. UNICEF’s experts supported policy reviews and service delivery models, ensuring that maternal and newborn health services were inclusive, high-quality, and equitable.During the Regional Verification Committee (RVC) mission, UNICEF facilitated stakeholder consultations, offered contextual insights, and provided technical inputs to strengthen the country’s readiness for validation. This dual-level engagement, with both national and regional partners, helped ensure a robust and inclusive validation process.At the regional level, UNICEF South Asia contributed by reviewing and refining the Maldives’ national EMTCT report, ensuring it met global standards and that interventions for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B were fully integrated.Leading the way to a healthier generationMaldives’ success sets a new global benchmark and brings hope to millions. It demonstrates that with strong systems, sustained investment, and collaboration, countries can eliminate preventable diseases and give every newborn the best start in life.As the world moves toward the 2030 global goal for triple elimination, UNICEF calls on all countries in South Asia and beyond to build on this momentum – so that no child is born with HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis B.For every mother. For every newborn. For every child. This article is first published at UNICEF Maldives website on Maldives achieves historic milestone with triple elimination of mother-to-child transmissionTo learn more about the works of UNICEF Maldives Please visit | | https://www.unicef.org/maldives/

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30 September 2025

Ageing with Dignity: Maldives Sets a New Standard for Older Citizens

The Maldives is undergoing a demographic transition, with its population ageing rapidly. This shift brings both challenges and opportunities that touch every aspect of society. On 17 September 2025, the Ministry of Social and Family Development, in partnership with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), marked a major milestone in addressing this transition with the launch of the Maldives’ National Policy on the Elderly. More than just a document, the policy is a commitment to ensure that older citizens are not left behind. The launch ceremony, attended by national leaders, development partners, and civil society representatives, carried a sense of both urgency and hope. UN Resident Coordinator to the Maldives, Mr. Hao Zhang, opened the event by emphasizing the broader regional context: “Population ageing is a megatrend in Asia and the Pacific. The Maldives is acting at a critical time, ensuring that older persons can age with dignity, security, and inclusion.” The demographic shift in the Maldives is striking. Currently, about 8% of the population is aged 60 and above, a proportion expected to more than triple to 32% by 2050. This growth reflects decades of progress in health care, education, and social development, but it also highlights the urgent need for policies that respond to the evolving needs of older citizens.Minister of Social and Family Development, Dr. Aishath Shiham, articulated the vision behind the policy: “We are building a compassionate society where older people live empowered lives, participate actively in their communities, and do not have to rely on others for their wellbeing.” The policy lays out a comprehensive framework to promote active and healthy ageing. It emphasizes access to high-quality health care, long-term care services, and lifelong learning. It also strengthens income security through social protection, pensions, and opportunities for economic participation, ensuring that older citizens remain both financially independent and socially engaged. Among the policy’s most innovative features is the creation of “Isravvehinge Naadhee”- social centres designed specifically for the elderly. These centres will provide safe, inclusive spaces for older people to connect, learn, and thrive. The launch is just the beginning. A validation workshop, held on 17–18 September, finalized the National Action Plan on Ageing, translating the policy’s vision into concrete, actionable steps. Supported by UNESCAP facilitating the discussions, participants aligned the action plan with international frameworks such as the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, the Maldives is reinforcing its commitment to global standards of dignity, inclusion, and social protection. The policy and related action plan also reinforce UN Maldives’ commitment to supporting the Government and society in ensuring dignity, inclusion, and empowerment for all generations. The policy and action plan of the Maldives, along with similar documents from across the region, will soon be accessible through the UNESCAP website https://www.population-trends-asiapacific.org/. As the Maldives celebrates 60 years of United Nations membership, and the UN marks its 80th anniversary, this initiative serves as a timely reminder of a shared responsibility: today’s youth are tomorrow’s elders. By acting now, the Maldives is preparing a future where ageing is not feared but embraced.

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Press Release

24 September 2025

Asia-Pacific advances agenda for living wages

COLOMBO (ILO News) — The Asia-Pacific region can demonstrate that living wages are achievable through a systematic approach grounded in social dialogue and evidence-based wage systems, participants at a regional dialogue organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO) heard.Shaping the living wage agenda in Asia and the Pacific – A high-level regional dialogue under the Global Coalition for Social Justice took place 23 - 26 September 2025 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The event brought together participants from 16 countries to explore making living wages a reality for all workers in Asia and the Pacific.The dialogue heard that despite a steady growth in average wages in Asia and the Pacific, millions of workers, especially women, migrants and those in informal employment continue to struggle with low pay, poor working conditions and rising costs of living.“What we need is a wage that allows workers not just to survive, but to live with dignity — a living wage. A living wage means being able to put healthy food on the table, afford decent housing, send children to school, and seek medical care when needed,” said ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo in a video message to the event. Participants stressed that the ILO’s living wage principles—social dialogue, equality, balancing workers’ needs with enterprise and economic realities, addressing root causes of low pay, as well as using evidence-based approaches—are vital for building predictable and effective wage-setting processes to ensure adequate wages.The discussions highlighted the need to align living wage initiatives and national wage-setting efforts with ILO principles to help ensure that economic growth translates into better livelihoods and shared prosperity. “With its vast workforce and role as a global economic engine, the region has the opportunity to demonstrate that living wages are not just aspirational, but achievable through a systematic approach grounded in social dialogue,” said Kaori Nakamura-Osaka, ILO Assistant Director-General and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.The event also saw the launch of the Asia-Pacific Digital Repository for Minimum Wages, the region’s first-of-its kind platform bringing minimum wage data in one place. The repository enhances accessibility, transparency and consistency in wage-setting, and forms part of ILO’s broader efforts to support member states to develop evidence-based wage policies.Following the high-level dialogue, a three-day technical course on effective evidence-based wage policies, including living wages, will be held for government, employer and worker representatives from across the region. The dialogue builds on the ILO’s historic 2024 agreement between governments, employers and workers on the concept of living wages, and the launch of the first global programme in 2025 focused on supporting countries to estimate and operationalize living wages. According to the ILO, a living wage enables workers and their families to afford a decent standard of living, covering food, housing, healthcare, education and other essential needs. This differs from minimum wages, which are legally binding wage floors designed to protect workers from unduly low pay but do not automatically guarantee a decent standard of living or provide remuneration sufficient to meet the needs of workers and their families.This Press Release is first published at ILO website on Asia-Pacific advances agenda for living wagesTo learn more about the works of ILO Please visit | ILO Homepage | International Labour Organization

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Press Release

30 June 2025

Maldives Launches First National Migrant Health Policy with IOM Support

Malé, [30 June 2025] – In a landmark move towards inclusive health systems, the Government of Maldives launched its first National Migrant Health Policy today, reaffirming its commitment to “Health for All” in alignment with global commitments under the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Led by the Ministry of Health and the Health Protection Agency and developed in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) the policy aims to improve health access and outcomes for both migrants and host communities.Remarking on the launch of the policy, H.E. Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, Minister of Health, emphasized, “We must ensure that this policy is not just a document on paper, but a living promise backed by coordinated action, sustained investment, shared accountability and responsibility”.
The Maldives, home to over 132,000 foreigners, accounting for 26% of the total population, has one of the highest ratios of migrants to nationals in the region. For every three Maldivians, there is one foreigner. Within this migration dynamic, 70,000 are estimated to be undocumented migrants. 53% of the migrant population is comprised of youth, and 12% are female. This demographic reality highlights the urgent need for inclusive, rights-based and evidence-driven health policies.The newly launched policy promotes a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, supporting the integration of migrant health into national health systems. It also focuses on improving data collection for data-driven decision making; expanding access to health services; reducing vulnerabilities through migrant-friendly and culturally sensitive services; and advocating for portability of social protection entitlements. As a result, this policy will give momentum to strengthen existing public health interventions to safeguard the residential population of the Maldives.
The policy was developed through a series of national consultations and enriched by a study visit to Sri Lanka, where Maldivian officials engaged with regional counterparts to gather best practices. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) played a key role, providing technical expertise and funding support through the IOM Development Fund, in partnership with the Health Protection Agency and the World Health Organization (WHO), throughout the process.“This policy is the beginning of meaningful change. The next step is translating it into real impact: welcoming clinics, multilingual health campaigns and partnerships that bridge gaps in healthcare,” said Iori Kato, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, IOM.“IOM is honored to stand with you in making this vision a reality. May this policy serve as a beacon of hope and progress for migrants in the Maldives and beyond,” he added.
As countries around the world work to realize Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the 2030 Agenda, the Maldives is taking concrete strides to ensure migrant health is not an afterthought, but a priority—benefiting both migrants and host communities alike.
For more information, please contact:Shantha Kulasekara, Head of Office, IOM Maldives
E-mail: skulasekara@iom.int

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Press Release

25 May 2025

Presentation of Credentials by the United Nations Resident Coordinator to the Republic of Maldives

Malé, 25 May 2025 – The newly appointed United Nations Resident Coordinator to the Republic of Maldives, Mr. Hao Zhang, has presented his credentials to His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at a ceremony held at the President’s Office this morning.The UN Resident Coordinator was ceremonially escorted from the Republic Square to the President’s Office in a traditional “Haiykolhu” procession, accompanied by MNDF Drum and Trumpet Band. The United Nations Resident Coordinator serves as the highest-ranking representative of the UN development system in the country, responsible for leading and coordinating the efforts of all UN agencies, funds, and programmes to advance sustainable development for the country.Following the formal presentation, President Muizzu extended a warm welcome to Mr Zhang and conveyed his confidence that the longstanding partnership between the Republic of Maldives and the United Nations would be further strengthened under his leadership. The President acknowledged the significant contributions of the United Nations to national development efforts and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to multilateralism. He further emphasized the United Nations’ essential role in supporting the Maldives in addressing pressing development challenges, particularly in promoting health and wellbeing while addressing non-communicable diseases and their causes, enhancing climate resilience, ensuring equitable and sustainable progress across all sectors of society.Mr. Zhang extended greetings to His Excellency President Muizzu from the UN Secretary-General Mr António Guterres and commended President Muizzu's visionary leadership and the Government's ambitious agenda for national development. He also reaffirmed the United Nations' commitment to support the Maldives in achieving its national vision of becoming a developed country by 2040. He reaffirmed the support from the United Nations based in Maldives and abroad to strategic priorities, particularly formulation of the 20-year National Development Plan, climate resilience, communications and advocacy in relation to generational ban on tobacco and strengthening support for mental health. The President thanked the UN and its agencies for the continued support and assistance to the Maldives and expressed his confidence in strengthening cooperation with a renewed spirit under Mr Zhang’s tenure. The ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs; H.E. Ali Arif, Minister at the President’s Office for Presidential Affairs; Head of UN Resident Coordinator’s Office Huda Adam and UN Peace and Development Adviser Janeen Fernando. ENDSFor more information, please contact:
Najma Abdulla, Communications and Advocacy Officer, Email: najma.abdulla@un.org, Phone number: +9607636936

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Press Release

11 May 2025

UN and Maldives Partners Advance Blue Carbon Finance to Tackle Climate and Economic Challenges

Malé, 11 May 2025 – The United Nations, in partnership with the Government of Maldives and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), today launched a capacity-building workshop on Blue Carbon Finance. The workshop, co-organized with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and the Ministry of Finance and Planning, marks a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to leverage its marine ecosystems to address climate change and support sustainable development.Opening the event, interim UN Resident Coordinator in Maldives, Mr. Niels Scott, emphasized the urgency and potential of blue carbon ecosystems—mangroves, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs—which store more carbon per square metre than tropical forests and serve as critical natural infrastructure protecting the islands from sea-level rise, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining key sectors like fisheries and tourism.“This is not just about climate—it’s about sovereignty, security, and sustainable livelihoods,” Mr. Scott noted. “Blue carbon finance offers a pathway to reduce emissions, unlock new sources of funding, and strengthen community resilience.”The workshop builds on momentum from the Asia-Pacific Blue Economy Forum held in Malé in 2024, which mobilized over USD 500,000 for MSMEs and underscored the need for blended finance, public-private partnerships, and results-based mechanisms to close the region’s USD 5.5 trillion blue financing gap.ESCAP’s accelerator approach and broader UN support under the UN80 reform agenda are central to helping Maldives scale its ambition while ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth. Initiatives such as low-emission hybrid vessels, youth-led conservation programmes, and the establishment of Maldives’ first legally recognized Community Conserved Area reflect the UN’s continued commitment to climate action and marine stewardship.As Maldives targets net-zero emissions by 2030, the workshop highlights the country’s leadership and the need for stronger national and international collaboration to deliver on its vision.ENDSFor further information, please contact: Najma Abdulla, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, phone: 9966167, email: najma.abdulla@un.org

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Press Release

24 October 2024

Joint Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Abdulla Khaleel and UN Resident Coordinator a.i. Mr. Enrico Gaveglia on the occasion of United Nations Day

24 October 2024, Male’ As we approach the significant milestone of the 60th anniversary of the Maldives membership in the United Nations, to take place on 21 September 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives, in partnership with the United Nations in the Maldives, takes this opportunity to reflect on nearly six decades of enduring partnership, collaboration, and commitment to the universal ideals of peace, security, human rights, and sustainable development.Since formally joining the United Nations in 1965, the Maldives and the United Nations have enjoyed a fruitful and impactful partnership. The United Nations extended much-needed development support, during the early days following the Maldives regaining its independence. At the United Nations, the Maldives has demonstrated remarkable prowess on the international stage, assuming a key role in global climate advocacy, the promotion and protection of human rights, and advancing multilateral cooperation. As we celebrate the United Nations Day this year, marking 79 years since the United Nations Charter came into force, let us commemorate these notable achievements and reaffirm our collective dedication to the values and principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.The United Nations Secretary-General’s call in the Pact of the Future adopted during the Summit of the Future outlines the decisive actions and multilateral solutions which the Maldives reiterates its resolute commitment to achieving. Throughout 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations, will undertake several commemorative events aimed at celebrating our shared accomplishments and highlighting the vital contributions by the Maldives towards the promotion of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development for all.This anniversary is a poignant reminder of the indispensable importance of multilateralism and the important role of the Maldives in shaping a more equitable, just, and resilient future. The Maldives, on its journey to becoming a developed nation by 2040, will work with the United Nations to ensure that our collective future is grounded in the core principles of the United Nations and emphasises inclusivity, unity, and resilience – to ensure progress and opportunity for future generations. ENDSFor further information, please contact: Aishath Rifga Mohamed, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, phone: 3323400, email: aishath.rifga@foreign.gov.mvNajma Abdulla, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, phone: 9966167, email: najma.abdulla@un.org

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