The Maldives commemorated the 60th anniversary of its membership in the United Nations (UN) on Sunday, reflecting six decades of active engagement with the international community since joining the organisation on 21 September 1965.
In a message on the occasion, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu described the Maldives’ entry into the UN as a moment of hope, ambition, and belief in the power of international cooperation. He noted that the anniversary represents not only a historic decision but also a flourishing partnership between the Maldives and the UN.
President Muizzu recalled the Maldives’ active engagement within the UN, stating that the organisation has served not only as a partner but also as a guiding light. He credited the UN with playing a vital role in the country’s development, from advancing healthcare and education to strengthening governance and safeguarding human rights.
The President emphasised that the Maldives’ participation in the UN embodies the aspirations of small nations across the globe, showing that “even the smallest of states can make meaningful contributions to peace, justice, and sustainability.”
The President highlighted the Maldives’ leadership on climate action, noting the country’s consistent efforts to amplify the voices of Small Island Developing States and to urge the global community to protect and preserve the planet for future generations. He also called for reform within the UN, stressing the need for the organisation to evolve and modernise in response to emerging global challenges. He underscored the importance of maintaining trust in UN decision-making by ensuring meaningful action during crises, citing the ongoing atrocities in Gaza as a case in point.
Over the years, the Maldives has played an active role within the UN system. Its contributions include serving multiple terms on the Human Rights Council, holding the Presidency of the 76th Session of the General Assembly, and leading landmark initiatives such as the establishment of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, a Voluntary Technical Assistance Trust Fund to support the participation of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and SIDS in the Human Rights Council, initiatives to support graduating LDCs, efforts to protect small states, and the establishment of the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.
As the Maldives celebrates this milestone, the government reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of the UN Charter. The country pledged to continue its active engagement within the organisation, amplifying the voices of small states and working towards a more just, resilient, and sustainable world.