Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim emphasised the critical role of mindset changes in achieving human rights objectives during an event organised by the Human Rights Commission of Maldives to commemorate Human Rights Day.

The minister highlighted that systemic changes require collective shifts in societal attitudes. He stated that without these changes, laws and enforcement efforts alone cannot effectively uphold human rights.

Minister Nazim also stressed the importance of respecting both individual rights and the rights of the state to maintain a balanced and sustainable system.

Addressing historical and contemporary issues, the minister referred to the assassination of former President Mohamed Amin and condemned recent political rhetoric targeting President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. He warned that political discord could undermine efforts to advance human rights.

The minister further reiterated the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, calling for equality across all demographics, regardless of factors such as race, religion, gender, or political beliefs.

Despite challenges, he noted that Maldives has made progress in areas such as medical care and education, reflecting strides in human rights development within the country.