Gov’t Aims to Shape Efforts to Reduce Violence, Says Minister

The Minister of Social and Family Development, Dr Aishath Shiham, emphasised the government’s commitment to combating gender-based and domestic violence, aligning with the administration’s “Compassionate Society” policy. She made these remarks today at the opening ceremony of the two-day civil society symposium organised by the Family Protection Authority (FPA).

Dr Shiham highlighted that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision is to foster a compassionate and inclusive society where no one is left behind. She stressed the importance of creating a safe environment that ensures the protection and well-being of all citizens, particularly victims of abuse, children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.

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We thank the Minister Dr. Aishath Shiham, Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, @UNICEFMaldives Representative, Dr. Edward Addai and heads of state institutions for joining the opening ceremony to commemorate the start of our symposium. #PartnershipForChange2024@MSFDmv @MoHmv 3/3 pic.twitter.com/6zqX1SddzX— Family Protection Authority (@FPAMaldives) November 25, 2024

The Minister also detailed ongoing efforts under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, which focuses on supporting victims and strengthening the Ministry’s responsibilities. She announced plans to enhance existing temporary shelters for victims of domestic violence and to establish three additional centres in different regions of the country, aiming to improve service quality and accessibility.

In her address, Dr Shiham outlined key initiatives such as the “Ibama” and “Haalu Kihineh” programmes. The Ibama initiative, active in 37 islands across five atolls, has trained 194 stakeholders to support community resilience. Meanwhile, the Haalu Kihineh programme involves visits to all residential islands to assess conditions and identify families requiring special attention. The programme has reached 53 islands in 12 atolls, with 22 completed. To date, officials have visited 8,027 households, including those in Hulhumalé Phase II, Villimalé, and various atolls.

Civil Society Symposium: Strengthening Collaboration

The FPA’s civil society symposium, jointly organised with UNICEF, is one of the largest events in this year’s 16-day campaign against gender-based violence. Running from the 25th to the 26th of this month, it brings together 15 civil society organisations nationwide.

@MSFDmv @PGO_MV @HopeforWomenmv @SHE_Maldives #16DaysOfActivism #UNiTE #EndViolence #Beijing30 #StandUpForWomen #PartnershipForChange2024

2/2 pic.twitter.com/clLi9KUexo— Family Protection Authority (@FPAMaldives) November 25, 2024

The symposium aims to address challenges organisations face to prevent domestic violence, develop solutions, and build sustainable partnerships with government institutions. Through this collaborative effort, the government seeks to strengthen its ties with civil society and enhance collective efforts to protect vulnerable populations.