The 47th Session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) has officially begun at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, with the Maldives actively participating in this critical evaluation of global human rights practices.

The session, which runs from November 1 to November 15, 2024, will review the human rights records of fourteen countries, offering a platform for nations to showcase their progress and commitments.

The Maldives is represented by a high-level delegation led by Dr. Salma Rasheed, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations Office at Geneva. Accompanying her are key officials, including Counsellor Mr. Adam Hamid and Second Secretary Ms. Maryam Fathika Fayaz. This delegation aims to engage constructively in discussions surrounding human rights, not only for the Maldives but also in its role in the Troika for Qatar's review.

The UPR is a unique state-driven process that encourages transparency and dialogue among UN member states, allowing each country to highlight its achievements and challenges in fulfilling its human rights obligations. The Maldives, as a member of the Human Rights Council, plays a significant role in this mechanism, reflecting its commitment to fostering international cooperation in human rights advocacy.

During the session, the Maldives will engage in comprehensive discussions and provide constructive feedback to other countries undergoing review. The UPR process also allows nations to receive valuable recommendations from their peers on enhancing their human rights frameworks, making it a vital component of global accountability.

As the session progresses, the Maldives is poised to contribute meaningfully to the dialogue, emphasizing the importance of human rights in promoting a just and equitable society. The participation in the UPR aligns with the Maldives' broader commitment to uphold and protect the rights of its citizens while engaging with the international community to address human rights issues globally.