The Government of the Maldives has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights globally, following the conclusion of the 59th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva today.
During this session, the Council adopted 26 resolutions and one decision, and appointed two Special Procedures Mandate Holders. The Maldives maintained an active and constructive presence, delivering national statements on a wide range of thematic issues and co-sponsoring several key resolutions in line with national priorities.
The Maldives co-sponsored resolutions addressing pressing global challenges, including human rights and climate change, the right to education, the empowerment of women and girls in and through sport, and the impact of new and emerging digital technologies on human rights.
In addition, the Maldives joined several joint statements on crucial topics, such as promoting the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association, enhancing access to artificial intelligence for developing countries, facilitating technical assistance for states facing structural vulnerabilities, and supporting a human rights-based approach to the 2026 Water Conference.
Significantly, the Maldives served as a member of the cross-regional core group on the resolution concerning the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association. This resolution, adopted by consensus with 69 co-sponsors, highlights the essential role of these rights in enabling full enjoyment of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenants. The resolution also emphasized the importance of promoting an open, secure, and accessible internet environment for all.
The Maldivian delegation to the 59th Session was led by Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva, Dr. Salma Rasheed, and included Counsellor Adam Hamid, Counsellor Uza. Aminath Shifaya Ibrahim, Second Secretaries Aishath Rayahyn and Amr Danyal Shamun, and Attaché Raaidh Saeedh from the Permanent Mission.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates that the Maldives remains dedicated to upholding human rights at home and abroad and will continue to work constructively with the international community to advance these shared values.
