The 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council has opened in Geneva, with the Maldives set to outline its human rights priorities and national progress during the high-level segment of the meeting.
The session of the United Nations Human Rights Council began on Monday in Geneva, Switzerland, with its High-Level Segment running from 23 to 25 February. The General Segment will follow from 26 February until 31 March 2026.
Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel is scheduled to address the Council, where he is expected to brief member states on measures undertaken by the government under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to promote and protect human rights.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Khaleel will reaffirm the Maldives’ commitment to advancing human rights both at home and abroad, describing them as a cornerstone of sustainable and inclusive development. His statement will also highlight the particular vulnerabilities faced by Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and stress the need for their meaningful and sustained participation in the Council’s work.
During his visit, Minister Khaleel will take part in a high-level side event hosted by Slovenia and co-sponsored by the Maldives, titled “Advancing Human Rights and Equality: Investing in Women and Political Leadership in Multilateralism”. The event is scheduled to take place on 24 February and will focus on strengthening women’s representation and leadership within multilateral institutions.
The Maldivian delegation will also deliver national statements under several agenda items during the General Segment. In addition, the Maldives is expected to present two joint statements on behalf of Small Island Developing States based in Geneva, reflecting coordinated positions on issues of shared concern.
The delegation to the High-Level Segment is led by Minister Khaleel and includes the Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations Offices at Geneva, Dr Salma Rasheed, alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Maldives Mission in Geneva.
The annual session of the Council brings together ministers and senior representatives from UN member states to review global human rights developments and address emerging challenges. For the Maldives, the session provides an opportunity to engage multilaterally on issues central to its development priorities and international advocacy efforts.