In an unprecedented milestone for global public health, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized the Maldives as the first country in the world to achieve the ‘triple elimination’ of mother-to-child transmission of Hepatitis B, HIV, and Syphilis.
The WHO made the announcement on Sunday, congratulating the Maldives for maintaining elimination status in HIV and syphilis, while newly achieving elimination of mother-to-child transmission of Hepatitis B — a major breakthrough in maternal and child health.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu hailed the recognition as a historic achievement that places the Maldives at the forefront of global healthcare success stories.
“Today, the Maldives makes history. We are proud to be the first country in the world to achieve ‘triple elimination’ of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B,” President Muizzu stated on social media. “My heartfelt appreciation goes out to all health professionals, communities, and partners whose unwavering dedication made this historic achievement possible”.
The WHO’s validation is granted only to countries that meet stringent global health criteria — proving sustained success in disease prevention, screening, and treatment. The Maldives’ achievement reflects years of consistent investment in universal healthcare, immunization, and maternal health initiatives.
In 2019, the Maldives was already validated by WHO for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis. The latest recognition for Hepatitis B now crowns the nation with triple elimination status — a global first.
Health experts have lauded the Maldives’ achievement as a model for other nations, emphasizing the government’s continued commitment under President Muizzu to strengthen the healthcare system and ensure the well-being of every mother and child across the archipelago.
This recognition by WHO not only marks a triumph of medical excellence but also symbolizes the Maldives’ growing leadership in advancing global health standards — setting a proud example for small island nations worldwide.
