The World Health Organization (WHO) has congratulated President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu following his inclusion in TIME magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in Health 2026, describing the recognition as a reflection of bold leadership in advancing preventive care and public health reform.
In a message shared on social media, WHO commended President Muizzu for what it described as transformative efforts to strengthen health systems and promote preventive policies in the Maldives. The agency also expressed its commitment to continuing close collaboration with the Maldivian government.
President Muizzu’s inclusion in the TIME list marks a significant international milestone for the Maldives, placing the country among global leaders shaping the future of public health policy.
TIME credited the President’s administration for introducing sweeping reforms, most notably the world’s first “generational tobacco ban.” The legislation prohibits the sale and use of tobacco products for anyone born on or after January 1, 2007 — a long-term strategy aimed at phasing out smoking within Maldivian society.
The recognition also highlighted the government’s nationwide ban on the import and sale of vapes and e-cigarettes, introduced to curb youth nicotine addiction. While some critics have described the measures as stringent, TIME noted that regulatory reforms have been paired with expanded support systems, including the establishment of specialised smoking cessation clinics and the launch of a 24-hour mental health helpline.
Since taking office in 2023, President Muizzu has positioned public health as a central priority of his administration, advancing policies that emphasise prevention, early intervention and community wellbeing.
The Maldives’ health achievements extend beyond tobacco control. The country previously secured international recognition for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and Hepatitis B — a milestone regarded as a major public health accomplishment. Health authorities have continued to build on this success through sustained vaccination drives, screening programmes and strengthened maternal care services.
For WHO, the TIME recognition signals the growing global profile of the Maldives in the sphere of health policy innovation. The agency reiterated its readiness to maintain a strong partnership with the government in efforts to advance universal health coverage, reinforce system resilience and secure healthier futures for communities.
The acknowledgement from both TIME and WHO underscores how a small island nation is shaping conversations on preventive healthcare, climate-sensitive health planning and tobacco control on the global stage.
