The Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development has outlined ongoing efforts to enhance labour conditions across the Maldives, including the establishment of a Labour Management Information System and a review of the national minimum wage.

The announcement was made by Minister Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed in conjunction with Labour Day, observed on May 1st.

According to the Minister, the Labour Management Information System is being developed to improve data tracking and transparency in the labour sector, while the minimum wage review aims to ensure equitable pay standards in alignment with the country’s evolving economic context.

As part of the Government’s “Employment for All” initiative, the ministry has already provided skill training to over 2,000 Maldivians, with 300 youth receiving specialised employment training. The programme is designed to improve workforce readiness and support inclusive economic growth.

The ministry also cited progress in legislative reform following the ratification of two key laws in 2024: the Industrial Relations Act and the Occupational Safety and Health Act. These laws have paved the way for the registration of trade unions, the formation of a tripartite labour advisory board involving Government, employers, and workers, and the establishment of a workplace health and safety council.

Additionally, a dedicated dispute resolution division has been created within the Employment Tribunal to ensure faster handling of employment-related violations. On the global front, the Maldives has joined the Global Coalition for Social Justice and is working in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to develop a Decent Work Country Programme.

Highlighting the 2025 Labour’ Day theme — “Revolutionising Skills and Training: Building a Resilient Maldives Workforce for Inclusive Economic Growth”, Minister Dr Haidar noted the importance of equipping every Maldivian with the necessary skills, opportunities, and protections to thrive in a changing labour environment. He also stressed the need for collaboration between government, employers, and employees to ensure fair, just, and safe workplaces across the nation.