The Government has welcomed the preliminary observations issued by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to health, Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng, following her official visit to the Maldives.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Special Rapporteur acknowledged progress made by the Maldives in areas including universal healthcare, vaccination programmes, and efforts to strengthen equitable access to healthcare services across the country. The government stated that the observations would support ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare accessibility and mobilise further international technical and financial assistance.

Dr Mofokeng visited the Maldives from April 26 to May 7, during which meetings were facilitated with representatives from the executive, parliament and judiciary, alongside visits to healthcare facilities in Malé, Dhaalu Atoll and Addu City.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the right to health for all people in the Maldives through policies focused on universal healthcare coverage, equity and accessibility. Authorities also highlighted the continued emphasis being placed on strengthening primary healthcare and preventive care services nationwide.

The Foreign Ministry stated that the Government would review the recommendations put forward by the Special Rapporteur and continue efforts to advance healthcare rights in the Maldives. The visit also marked the first visit by a United Nations Special Procedures mandate holder to the Maldives this year under the standing invitation extended by the Government.