At the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the Maldives proudly stood among nations advocating for global justice, equality, and sustainable development. Addressing an international gathering of parliamentary leaders, Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, delivered a compelling speech that spotlighted the Maldives’ legislative achievements, social initiatives, and unwavering commitment to climate advocacy.
Focusing on the Assembly’s theme, “Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice,” the Speaker emphasized the essential role parliaments play in shaping fair and inclusive societies. He highlighted several key laws passed by the Maldives Parliament that have significantly advanced the country’s social fabric among them, the Child Rights Protection Act, the Gender Equality Act, the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, and the Social Health Insurance Act. These legislative efforts, he noted, are backed by active and ongoing oversight through parliamentary committees, ensuring their effective implementation nationwide.
Underscoring the Maldives’ dedication to reducing inequality and poverty, Speaker Abdul Raheem pointed to the government’s efforts under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to strengthen the Zakat system and modernize the country’s welfare services. This includes ensuring that support reaches those in need efficiently and equitably.
The Speaker also emphasized the importance of empowering the nation’s youth and women through economic opportunities. He described ongoing support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on providing financial assistance, skills development, and business training. These initiatives, he said, are instrumental in building a more resilient and self-reliant population.
Acknowledging the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the Speaker highlighted the Maldives’ investments in information and communication technology, digital accessibility, and e-governance. These efforts aim to ensure all citizens benefit from digital transformation, regardless of geographic or social barriers.
In one of the most pressing parts of his address, Speaker Abdul Raheem drew attention to the existential threat climate change poses to the Maldives. As a low-lying island nation, the Maldives faces increasing risks from rising sea levels and extreme weather events. He called on fellow IPU members to support vulnerable countries and prioritize environmental sustainability, reaffirming the Maldives’ voice as a strong advocate for climate justice.
Concluding his remarks, the Speaker appealed for renewed global unity and constructive dialogue, urging fellow parliamentarians to place justice, equity, and human dignity at the center of their legislative agendas. He also voiced the Maldives’ concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for immediate international efforts to end the violence and ensure the protection of civilians.
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