Women’s participation in leadership and frontline roles in the Maldives has seen a significant rise as Government efforts continue to strengthen gender equality across key sectors, according to the Ministry of Social and Family Development.

Speaking to state media, Lead Child Protection Officer at the Ministry, Aminath Rishmy Amir, stated that both the government and the Ministry are actively working to enhance women’s roles in politics, the economy, and wider society, especially in fields where female representation has traditionally been limited.

Rishmy emphasised that economic empowerment remains a major priority, highlighting the women-focused start-up loan scheme Fashaa Madhadhu as a prime example of initiatives designed to expand opportunities for females. 

Rishmy stated that according to the statistics, the proportion of women on boards has increased from 16 per cent to 39 per cent. Along with these changes, the local council elections have also seen a rise in the number of women councillors. 

A Cabinet decision made on 24 December 2023 confirmed the introduction of the Gender Equality Seal at the national level, aiming to strengthen gender equality across public institutions, private enterprises, and state-owned companies. The initiative forms a key component of the Gender Equality Action Plan, aligned with the Gender Equality Act.