AG Usham: Maldives' commitment to Human Rights will not contradict Islam

Attorney General Ahmed Usham has stated that the Maldives will implement human rights guarantees in a manner that does not contravene the principles of Islam.

Speaking at the Universal Periodic Review session held by the United Nations to assess human rights protection in member states, Usham emphasized that the identity of the Maldives is intertwined with Islam, which he described as an uncompromisable pillar of the nation's social fabric. He also noted the respect given to Islam within the Maldivian Constitution.

"This religion shapes our values. Our laws draw guidance from this religion, and this religion directs our social and moral compass. Our commitment to human rights will be in accordance with the principles connected to this foundation," Usham said at the review session held at the UN Office in Geneva.

The Attorney General added that freedom of thought and expression is guaranteed by the Maldivian Constitution, but he stressed that this right is provided only in a manner that does not contradict the fundamentals of Islam.

He confirmed that the Maldivian government will uphold civil liberties as stipulated in the Constitution, but these liberties must be exercised in a way that preserves national harmony and does not disseminate any form of hatred.

The AG's Office reported that during this UPR session, the Maldives shared its achievements, ongoing efforts, and government policies related to human rights protection. Specifically, they shared information with the UPR Working Group regarding:

·         Protecting the civil and political rights of Maldivians.

·         Strengthening law enforcement.

·         Efforts to empower and protect people requiring special care and assistance within the community.

·         Protecting economic, social, and cultural rights.

·         Work undertaken to strengthen the Maldivian governance system, legal framework, and the justice system to uphold the rule of law.

·         Efforts to protect the rights of women, children, and people requiring special protection.

·         Work related to climate change.

The AG's Office noted that 104 countries participated in the review session of the Maldives, and many acknowledged the progress made by the Maldives in implementing the recommendations from the previous cycle. They also praised the Maldivian government's policies and recognized the development and achievements gained by the country.

The UPR is a review process conducted every four years to assess the extent to which UN member states protect human rights and implement international human rights treaties.

The next review session for the Maldives in the UPR's fifth cycle is scheduled for 2030.