The Maldives is participating in the 60th regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, which opened Monday in Geneva, Switzerland. The session, running from 8 September to 8 October, brings together representatives from 47 member states to address global human rights challenges and strengthen international cooperation.
Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, opened the session with a comprehensive address outlining the state of human rights worldwide.
The Maldives, in a statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affirmed its commitment to contributing substantively to the council’s work. In line with its national priorities, the delegation will deliver statements under several agenda items and participate actively in drafting and presenting resolutions.
Among its key contributions, the Maldives will introduce a new resolution focused on the impact of sea-level rise on the full and effective enjoyment of human rights. The delegation will also present the triennial resolution addressing the role of prevention in promoting and protecting human rights, according to the foreign ministry.
Representing Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the Maldives will deliver a joint statement under the agenda item on technical assistance and capacity-building. This intervention highlights the unique vulnerabilities faced by island nations and their need for targeted support within the human rights framework.
As a member of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the Maldives will join collective statements raising concern over the increasing prevalence of human rights violations. In its national capacity, the country will address a range of critical issues, placing particular emphasis on the humanitarian crisis in Palestine. The delegation is also scheduled to engage in the interactive dialogue with the special rapporteur on the situation in Myanmar.
Leading the delegation is Dr Salma Rasheed, Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations Office in Geneva. In her role as Vice President of the Human Rights Council, representing the Asia-Pacific Group, Dr Rasheed will also preside over several council meetings during the session.
The Human Rights Council, established as an intergovernmental body within the United Nations system, is tasked with promoting and protecting human rights globally. It addresses violations and formulates recommendations for corrective action. The Maldives continues to serve as an active member of the council, with its current term concluding in 2025.