Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to building a dignified and inclusive society that upholds human rights and ensures justice for all.

Addressing the Universal Periodic Review on the Human Rights Situation in the Maldives, Minister Dr Aishath Shiham said the Administration remains focused on strengthening social protection systems and empowering vulnerable groups, including women, children, persons with disabilities, and senior citizens.

She noted that, under the policies of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, efforts are being made to identify and support vulnerable families through targeted assistance programmes designed to foster equality and resilience.

The minister also highlighted the Maldives’ progress in enhancing women’s participation in governance. The Decentralisation Act mandates that 33 per cent of council seats be reserved for women, resulting in a significant rise in female representation – from 6.1 per cent in 2017 to 39.7 per cent at present.

She further emphasised the Government’s commitment to gender equality in leadership. Women currently occupy 83 per cent of senior positions within the civil service and 56 percent of executive-level posts, while they represent 49 per cent of the country’s practising lawyers.

In addition to leadership roles, the Government is promoting women’s economic empowerment through initiatives such as a MVR 100 million loan scheme for women entrepreneurs. A quarter of the fund is allocated specifically to individuals with disabilities, reflecting the Administration’s strategy to foster inclusivity in all sectors of society.