Human Rights NGOs Call for Urgent Action on Rights Violations in the Maldives

A coalition of Maldivian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) has expressed grave concern over the deteriorating state of human rights in the Maldives.

In a joint statement released on the occasion of World Human Rights Day, the NGOs criticised state institutions for their role in exacerbating human rights violations and for failing to hold perpetrators accountable.

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The statement, issued by the Association for Democracy in the Maldives and co-signed by organisations including the Maldives Journalists Association, Transparency Maldives, and Zero Waste Maldives, highlighted specific violations in a briefing paper. These issues span from legislative actions to environmental degradation, human trafficking, and systemic impunity.

Allegations of Unconstitutional Legislative Changes

The coalition condemned the People’s Majlis for passing a controversial constitutional amendment on 20 November 2024 without public consultation or debate. The amendment, affecting multiple articles, was ratified by President Muizzu within 24 hours. The NGOs argued that this move undermined democratic principles and eroded public trust in the government.

Exploitation of Migrant Workers

The treatment of migrant workers also came under scrutiny. The NGOs noted that workers are often subjected to forced labour, withheld wages, and deplorable living conditions, with over 5,000 deported in 2024 alone. They highlighted threats made by Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihsan against Bangladeshi workers protesting in solidarity with demonstrations in Dhaka. Such actions, they argued, breach constitutional protections and perpetuate systemic abuses.

Concerns over Juvenile Rehabilitation Policies

The NGOs expressed alarm over the government’s “Hope Island” initiative, aimed at rehabilitating children from “criminal environments.” They criticised plans to isolate these children and conscript those who fail to achieve certain academic results into law enforcement. These measures, they warned, could lead to greater systemic violence and worsen societal outcomes for vulnerable youth.

Threats to Press Freedom and Human Rights Defenders

The briefing paper detailed ongoing threats and violence against journalists and human rights defenders (HRDs). High-profile cases, such as the murder of blogger Yameen Rasheed and the abduction of journalist Ahmed Rilwan, remain unresolved. The coalition accused state institutions of failing to ensure the safety and accountability required to protect HRDs and media personnel.

Environmental and Social Concerns

The NGOs also criticised large-scale reclamation projects, including the second phase of the Gulhifalhu project, for their ecological and socioeconomic consequences. They noted contradictions between the government’s climate advocacy on international platforms and its domestic environmental policies.

Mental Health Legislation and Marginalised Communities

Concerns were raised about a proposed mental health bill, which the NGOs said facilitates coercive practices, such as involuntary hospitalisation and electroshock therapy, instead of adopting a rights-based approach. The coalition also decried the persistent discrimination and violence faced by women and marginalised groups, calling for urgent reforms to address these systemic issues.

Criticism of Oversight Bodies

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) was singled out for failing to effectively fulfil its mandate. The NGOs urged the HRCM to take a more proactive stance, warning that its inaction undermines its credibility and compliance with international standards.

The coalition called on the parliament, executive, judiciary, and state oversight bodies to prioritise meaningful public consultation and accountability in addressing these violations. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting nation-building efforts that respect and uphold fundamental human rights.