Acknowledging the efforts by the government to improve the country’s economy, UN expert, Sewanyana, amid a 10-day visit, encouraged the State to direct further efforts into strengthening procedures that focus around inclusivity to establish better governance.
Independent UN expert on equality and democracy, Livingstone Sewanyana has concluded a 10-day visit to Maldives last week and commended Maldives for its notable efforts to diversify the economy as well as measures on social cohesion and security.
Sewanyana is a volunteer expert associated with the Special Procedures division of the Human Rights Council which is comprised of the largest body of experts in UN human rights system. Mandates of experts are encircled around addressing country-specific solutions, such as social protection, climate change and sustainable development.
During a press briefing held last Thursday, Sewanyana remarked that engagement of marginalized groups such as women, migrant workers and youth within decision making positions. He encouraged the formation of polices to strengthen social welfare and reduce poverty.
However, he had commended some of the actions taken towards women's empowerment such as funding schemes directed towards female entrepreneurs. Sewanyana urged the State to adopt additional policies that concentrate on social cohesion and advised reinforcement of regulations that defend the rights and dignities of foreign workers. He also highlighted the importance of safeguarding civic spaces.
Sewanyana held audiences with several Ministers of the Cabinet, parliamentarians, as well as civil service organizations during his visit.
During the meeting, they also discussed improvements to sectors such as eco-tourism, renewable energy, agriculture, and information technology, as well as measures to find resolutions for the significant amount of State debt
Further commending the country’s efforts to address economic challenges by prioritizing social infrastructure investments and diversifying the economy, Sewanyana also acknowledged the country’s proactive initiatives to counter climate change.
The official report on his visit, including key recommendations, will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in September 2024.
Sign In