UNDP is the United Nations’ leading development agency, fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.
UNDP has been in the Maldives for more than 45 years. We work on climate and disaster resilience, democratic governance, and to drive and sustain the kind of growth that improves the quality of life for everyone in the Maldives, with people and nature in balance.
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Dhivehi Dhathuru
Forewords by Kanni Wignaraja and H. E. Dr. Abdullah Khaleel
Our Key Partners
Revolutionizing the Fisheries Sector
Fuvahmulah’s Blueprint for Urban Resilience
UNDP’s Silent Achiever: Shaheem
Razee
Riyaz: An Unconventional but Inspiring Drive to Success
Nashida Sattar - From Local to Global: Reflections on a UNDP Career
Beyond the Bench: The Rise of Women in the Judiciary and the Path to Stronger Governance
Anhen Verin: Empowered Women
Leaders Empowering Others
Where Have the Dragonflies Gone?
The Eco Warriors
Why Gearing the Maldives’ Markets and Business Environment Towards Sustainability is Essential for Future Resilience
01 DHIVEHI DHATHURU
From the Bare Necessities
The UN’s ‘official’ arrival on the shores of Maldives was marked in March 1978 by the opening of the very first UNDP Office in the capital city Malé. At the time, the island nation was one of the poorest and most vulnerable countries in the world. Frequent daily challenges across the archipelago included access to safe drinking water and proper nutrition, which were all compounded by the islands’ natural state of isolation.
As told through UNDP’s years
of trusted partnership for the Maldives
By Rae Munavvar
Health and sanitation were serious problems, especially in Malé, amid a devastating Cholera Epidemic that affected one in 12 people. One of the first things UNDP did was to bring in a motorboat named ‘Sul-ha’ (meaning peace in the local Dhivehi language). This vessel played a vital role in reaching remote communities across the atolls, where the scarcity of essential resources like water and limited access to education were obstacles that made the present challenges even more daunting.
UNDP Office, Male Maldives from 1988 - 2012
UNDP Office, M. Alivaage, Lainoofaru Magu, 1979
02
Spurring a Revolution
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the dominant export of the Maldives was dried, smoked and salted fish. In 1971, when the country was hit with a short-lived ‘Fish Crisis’, improving and expanding the trade through mechanisation proved necessary.
By 1973, UNDP had launched a project to purchase motorboats and train fishermen, resulting in the arrival of the first marine diesel engines and sparking a revolution for the centuries-old fishing communities. The first traditional fishing boat built to carry such an engine was famously dubbed ‘Ummeedhu’ (loosely translating to ‘hope’ in Dhivehi) - an apt name for a vessel that would usher in an unprecedented era of prosperity for local fishermen.
Fifty years later, UNDP continues to invest in the evolution of transport across the dispersed island nation. In 2024, UNDP supports the introduction of greener, sustainable options, including electric minibuses for public use in the Greater Malé Region, solar charging stations for island communities, and the first electric vehicles added to WAMCO’s waste management fleet. Additionally, UNDP is backing the launch of a first-of-its-kind ‘Agri-boat’ with solarpowered cold storage units that can swiftly deliver produce, minimizing post-harvest losses as well as reducing fuel consumption, costs, and carbon emissions.
The first traditional mas dhoni “Ummeedhu”,
An article from Japanese contribution to the fisheries sector
An Article from: Japanese contribution to the fisheries
For Sustainability and Success
Maldives’ greatest resource has always been its people - progressive, dynamic, and resilient. In 1980, with assistance from UNDP and other partners, the country began efforts to develop and standardize its schooling system. Three years later, for the first time, primary schools unified under a single, well-developed curriculum were established across the country. From then on, the nation has continued on an uphill trajectory rooted in lasting, knowledge-based empowerment.
Welcome
to the Sunny Side
A UNDP Situation Report was published in 1966, analysing the various bottlenecks to developing tourism in the Maldives. One of the key recommendations made by the expert team was that continued investment in the country’s infrastructure including airports, banking system and related capacity would pave the way for a thriving tourism industry. This advice was wellreceived by local industry pioneers, and their determination for success has since transformed the nation.
In the late 1970s, to meet the demands of growing tourist arrivals, UNDP provided support to the Government in its efforts to upgrade the country’s main airport on Hulhulé Island, which was later inaugurated in 1981.
The very first group of tourists
Male’ International Airport Oct 1988
An image from kurumba
First tourists at Kurumba
Huvadhoo Atoll School - Students act - 1980
Iskandar School1988
Machines in the Tropics
For years, with UNDP’s assistance, great efforts were made to collect census data from across the archipelago and have it sent abroad for processing, all at an enormous cost. Given how expensive and unsustainable the entire endeavour was, UNDP moved to equip the nation with the necessary technology and expertise.
In August 1983, as part of the Maldives’ journey toward digitalization, the country set up its very first computer. UNDP trained a team of three notable individuals who later trained others, becoming pioneers of the local ICT industry.
No One Left Behind
UNDP’s flagship programme in poverty reduction provided training in project design and management to local CBOs, including youth and women groups. It introduced concepts like decentralized governance and bottom-up planning, which helped the communities most in need, to flourish.
These movements were boosted by UNDP’s continued assistance in the provision of essential supplies such as introducing integrated water supply systems, decentralizing dry season water supplies and emergency water distribution, as well as making improvements to groundwater quality. In 2017, a project was initiated to deliver a safe and secure uninterrupted water supply to 49 islands, serving 105, 000 people affected by climate change.
First computer donated by UNDP
Water Supply
Malé water crisis
Water pipes to homes - 1996
Assisting blind and visually-impaired voters to cast independent votes
0708
First Light of Democracy
From its dawn, UNDP has been a major partner supporting Maldives’ vision for democratic reform. In July 2004, the Government put forward a democratic reform agenda and convened a constitutional assembly known as the Special Majlis to prepare a democratic constitution. Early on, UNDP brought in a constitutional expert to help support this historic process.
The ratification of Constitution of Maldives in August 2008 guaranteed separation of powers, multi-party elections, decentralized governance as well as a comprehensive bill of citizen rights and freedoms. This was followed by the establishment of independent bodies such as the Supreme Court, Elections Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission and the Prosecutor General’s Officefor the very first time. Two months later, UNDP assisted the Elections Commission in holding a free and fair election that resulted in a peaceful and historic transition.
Capacity-building support has since been provided to several newly established independent bodies including the Civil Service Commission, Judicial Service Commission, the Supreme Court, the Parliament, the Prosecutor General’s Office and the Anti-Corruption Commission in addition to a UN joint programme to support the Human Rights Commission.
Surviving The Unprecedented
UNDP has stood unwaveringly by the Maldives across some of its most challenging times, providing crucial support and assistance. Following the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, the UNDP assisted in shelter rehabilitation efforts, repairing 2,767 homes and constructing 169 homes on 45 islands. Eco-friendly harbours were developed on eight islands to revive infrastructure. To help restore livelihoods, UNDP provided fishing gear, agriculture kits, cash grants, and micro-credit loans to various islands, benefiting thousands of families, and women in particular. Project funding and management were channelled through trained Island Development Committees and NGOs on 86 islands.
The 2008 global recession exacerbated the dire effects of Maldives’ domestic fiscal crisis and drove the country into negative growth for the second time in a decade. Tourist arrivals and revenue were low, and the country’s high dependency on tourism and imports posed worrying implications for food security. Across this period, UNDP worked actively with other stakeholders on the value chain development of fishery and agriculture within the tourism
sector. In 2010, UNDP assisted the Government to develop the first-ever Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Act, spurring new incentives, access to finance and business incubation support for MSMEs.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, UNDP played a pivotal role in bolstering the Maldives’ health response - going beyond mere support, actively procuring and supplying essential products, while also bringing in expertise in crisis management and addressing the most critical impacts of the pandemic. After assessing the economic effects on SMEs and the self-employed, strategies were designed to mitigate the rising unemployment, income loss, social strains, and inequalities. UNDP also backed assessments on the rapid economy, livelihoods, socioeconomic impacts, climate change and water security, while assisting state interventions on gender-based violence and violence against women policies, justice services, survivor services, mental health, legal aid, and social cohesion, as well as low carbon transition and emergency water distribution.
Assisiting during the COVID-19 crisis
Supporting establishment of Maldives’ first UNESCO biosphere reserve
Conservation and Climate Action
In June 2011, backed by UNDP support, Baa Atoll became the Maldives’ first UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve; successfully demonstrating a community-led conservation model that could be replicated across all atolls. UNDP’s commitment to the environment continues to grow stronger and more resolute.
Fostering Equal Societies
UNDP has had a longstanding engagement to advance gender equality in the Maldives. Having supported the amendment of the Decentralization Act, UNDP went on to successfully advocate for the introduction of a 33 percent quota. Once the amended Act was adopted in December 2019, the number of women represented in the local councils as key community decisionmakers increased significantly.
Fast forward to 2024, and Maldives proudly stands as the first Small Island Developing State (SIDS) nation to craft and endorse an Integrated National Financing Framework. This framework incorporates genderresponsive financing strategies focused on climate action, propelling Maldives’ climate agenda forward. By reducing fossil fuel dependency, strengthening resilience, and directing investments towards sustainable and inclusive growth, Maldives is leading the charge towards a greener and more prosperous future.
In March 2022, the Government endorsed and launched the Gender Equality Action Plan (GEAP) formulated in partnership with UNDP, which is a ground-breaking integrated framework that has put in motion a shift in power and will continue to help facilitate the advancement of gender equality and the empowerment of women.
The threat of an island disappearing was farthest from people’s everyday worries or its development discourse when UNDP, the UN’s development arm opened its premises in the Maldives in the 1970s. There were other perils, including a cholera epidemic and lack of access to necessities. One of UNDP’s first moves was deploying the motorboat “Sulha” – a novel mode of transport at the time - to reach remote communities, supporting the government in delivering vital supplies and services across the Maldives’ 22 atolls.
Much progress has been made by the Maldives 45 years down the line: evolutions towards democratic governance, embracing nature, and pursuing human development growth.
Yet, today, the country also faces severe headwinds.
Like many other developing countries, Maldives is cornered by a heavy debt burden, limited liquidity and high borrowing costs. Inequalities and the climate crisis are intensifying, and the current global financial architecture has proven not to be fit-for-purpose to adjust to provide developing countries with affordable financing for sufficient liquidity to act as an effective global safety valve for all.
As this nation moves forward, UNDP stands as a steadfast partner in a journey of trust and innovation. Together, we
Kanni Wignaraja
UN Assistant Secretary-General, UNDP Assistant Administrator and UNDP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.
must pursue a future where economies work for everyone, with nature as integral to the balance.
The term “resilience” can sometimes be over-used or not well defined. Here, it is clear. Resilience is the capacity to navigate adversity, endure shocks, and constantly evolve in the face of disruptions and crises, and the Maldives has demonstrated this spirit, time and time again.
Small Island Developing States, like the Maldives, can sustain continued progress in governance, environmental stewardship, and equitable economic growth, with support from the international community. This includes bilateral and multilateral partners, as well as Foreign Direct Investment to invest at scale in this country’s future.
A million years before the dinosaurs vanished, the Indian tectonic plate shifted northward, creating a fissure in the Earth’s crust. This rupture led to the emergence of a volcanic ridge, which gradually eroded over time. As the ocean floor subsided with the volcano, corals began to populate and grow around it, forming the fringed reef of the Maldives atolls. For a country whose birth lay in regeneration, resilience is what will continue to shape its future the way forward.
H.E Dr. Abdulla Khaleel
Message by Minister of Foreign Affairs
Fifty-nine years ago, we took a leap of faith into a new frontier – seeking membership of the United Nations. It was the first foreign policy decision taken by the Government of a country that had just regained its independence. This bold move made our mark in history and paved the way for other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to seek similar recognition and acceptance. It also gave us a reliable partner in the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In 1978, the UNDP opened its country office in the Maldives – the second UN agency to establish a country office in the Maldives.
This year, we are celebrating over forty-five years of the Maldives-UNDP partnership – a partnership that has delivered at scale, amplified progress, and ensured prosperity at a time when our socio-economic landscape was in a precarious position. Over this period, UNDP has provided support in shaping and strengthening our education system, health sector, tourism and fisheries industries, post-tsunami recovery efforts, and democratic process and institutions, and has contributed to our efforts in uplifting the most vulnerable parts of our population. As a result, we have made remarkable strides, with the country becoming a development success story. In 2011, the Maldives became the third country to graduate from the Least Developed Country category, reflecting significant progress in key development indicators.
The partnership between the Maldives and UNDP remains
a solid and strong force for sustained growth. This is apparent in UNDP’s support to the formulation of the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) and the 20-year National Development Plan (NDP) of the Government. UNDP also continues to support our achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Through its Country Programme Document for Maldives (2022-2026), which serves as the framework of cooperation between the Government and UNDP, the Maldives has benefitted immensely from UNDP’s support to capacity building across the nation, further enhancing human resource development. We also value UNDP’s efforts to financially support the Maldives during its recovery process from unpredictable external shocks.
President Dr Muizzu in his address to the United Nations General Assembly at its seventy-ninth session, on 24 September 2024, outlined his vision to “make the Maldives a developed nation by 2040”, and place youth, digitalisation, and sustainable development at its centre. The President envisions a Maldives that delivers on the promise of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and other internationally agreed documents. As we reflect on over forty-five years of Maldives-UNDP partnership, and look forward to its golden jubilee, I am confident that UNDP will remain a close and trusted partner in realising our vision for a more resilient, more prosperous Maldives.
OUR KEY PARTNERS
“Over the past 45 years, UNDP Maldives has built a strong reputation for supporting development throughout the islands of this extraordinary and geographically unique country. The UK established a resident diplomatic mission four years ago, but through our wider support for the UN and UNDP we have contributed to UN work in Maldives for a long time. Now we are here, we consider UNDP a key partner to deliver governance reforms (especially working closely on the justice sector), the rights of women and girls, and on climate and environment threats.”
Her Excellency Caron Röhsler, British High Commissioner to the Republic of Maldives
“:“Australia’s strong partnership with UNDP facilitated our contribution to the governance sector in Maldives, supporting initiatives in gender, judicial reform, human rights and civil society empowerment. We are especially proud to have funded the impactful project that enabled visually impaired Maldivians to cast their first independent vote in the 2023 Presidential election.”
His Excellency David Jessup, Australian High Commissioner to the Republic of Maldives
“Japan remains committed to strengthening its partnership with UNDP Maldives on shared priorities to advance human security and human development. Recognizing UNDP’s sincere efforts in the Maldives for more than 45 years, the Government of Japan as a longstanding key partner, has been contributing to the broad spectrum of development initiatives for the Maldives: from environmental sustainability, disaster risk management, human development, good governance, peace building and human rights to revitalizing economy and developing inclusive and thriving livelihoods.”
Her Excellency Takeuchi Midori, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Maldives
Pic : Mohamed Sarim Abdullah/UNDP Maldives
REVOLUTIONIZING THE FISHERIES SECTOR
By Shahudha Mohamed
REVOLUTIONIZING
For centuries, fishermen of the Maldivian archipelago relied entirely on the natural resources from their surroundings to sustain their livelihoods. Pole and line fishing took place on small wooden sailboats locally dubbed mas dhoni, adept at manoeuvring deep seas as well as coral reef-edged lagoons, powered by the wind. Every day, these sailboats would set out for their daily catch –painting an idyllic scene of white sails dotting the horizon across two distinct shades of blue.
Though a beautiful sight, it eventually became clear that the country’s fisheries, which nourished not only Maldivian homes but the entire economy of these tiny isles, were at an impasse. The industry could not grow further unless the country embraced new technology and adapted to the changing tides of a developing world.
During the 1960s Maldives’ fisheries generated a large portion of its income through tuna products–salted, sun-dried, and smoked. The dominant export to neighbouring Sri Lanka, the country’s biggest trade partner, was dried tuna popularly known as ‘Maldive Fish’. However, in 1971, Sri Lanka decided to stop its purchase of the product, leading to a rather sudden and urgent economic crisis.
In an attempt to attract new markets, then-President Ibrahim Nasir’s administration invited foreign companies to operate small-scale ‘fish-buying services’ in outer islands. Although the solution sounded great in theory, this strategy posed a new problem – traditional sailing boats were not able to supply enough quantities of tuna and reef fish fast enough to meet the international standards of freshness and quality for exportation.
Tackling this challenge meant revolutionizing the local fisheries industry at its core – changing movement and methods across the
entire archipelago. In 1973, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) identified this need and collaborated with the Maldives’ government to launch an ambitious project valued at US$100,000, aimed at mechanizing every single fishing vessel in the country – and in doing so, set the course for the sector to venture into newer, more prosperous waters.
Due to the complex nature of interagency coordination, the pilot project started off slow but was sped up thanks to a timely and generous donation from the Government of Japan – 116 Yanmar marine diesel inboard engines. These engines played a prominent role in propelling the project forward, giving local fishermen a taste of what was possible in a mechanized future.
Up to this moment, Maldivians had only relied on fleets of traditional mas dhoni, which were crafted using local materials such as coconut timber. Boat builders worked by the accuracy of their eyes, depending on specialized knowledge that was
passed down from father to son across generations. Master builders fleshed out new vessels entirely from memory, adding skilful touches of perfection to each dhoni. It was only natural that the introduction of foreign technology would be met with scepticism – traditional boat builders were not particularly keen on deviating from the conventional methods that had worked for them for centuries.
The first traditional mas dhoni that was built specially to carry a Yamnar marine diesel engine was a humble vessel “Ummeedhu”, which loosely translates to ‘hope’ in the Dhivehi language. The building and engine installation of the Ummeedhu dhoni was completed on 15 September 1974, and the aptly named vessel set sail to commence its first stage of sea trials the very next day. This first-ever mechanized fishing boat had a speed of nine nautical miles per hour and could store twice as much live bait compared to regular fishing vessels. Inspired by the ease and efficiency Ummeedhu promised, UNDP assisted the Government to install
Yanmar
The first traditional masdhoni that was built specially to carry a diesel engine was the vessel “Ummeedhu”
engines in four additional fishing vessels.
On 25 January 1975, the Ministry of Fisheries sent the Ummeedhu dhoni off to Northern Noonu Atoll, to be operated under the administration of Noonu Atoll Committee. On this historic journey, Noonu Atoll’s Chief Mr Holhudhoo Meyna Kaleyfaanu also accompanied the crew and travelled by the dhoni.
The arrival of this futuristic vessel was quite a spectacle. Local islanders gathered in shock and amazement to watch Ummeedhu dhoni disembark on its third fishing trip on the same day. They were delightfully surprised to see the boat return each time with catches much higher than average. It did not take long for the news of this success story to sweep the Maldivian fishing communities like a tidal wave.
However, local fishermen remained sceptical. They saw no reason to alter their seaworthy vessels, believing the noise of the propeller and engine gears would scare the fish away. They also held concerns that the traditional design of the dhoni could not be modified or upgraded to install inboard diesel engines and doubted the technical feasibility of adopting unfamiliar technology.
Nevertheless, there was no question about the numerous advantages that were brought on by the change. When men set out fishing on inboard engine dhoni, they were landing tonnes of
fish, in a much shorter amount of time. To demonstrate the efficiency of the new vessels, the Government tasked the National Security Service (NSS) with operating one of the five mechanized boats. The Minister of Fisheries, Mr Ahmed Hilmy personally visited the outer islands and met with the local traditional fishermen to encourage their acceptance of the marine diesel engines.
These initiatives helped transform the perception of locals – and the results generated by the mechanization proved far too great to remain clouded over by tradition or scepticism.
Noonu Atoll’s Chief Mr Holhudhoo Meyna Kaleyfaanu
A Maldivian Fishing Dhoani from 1900s
FIshing boat from 1967
As the country’s mindset began to shift in a new direction, with UNDP’s assistance, the Government embarked on a quest to mechanize traditional fishing boats nationwide. By February 1976, 70 out of the 116 Yanmar engines gifted by the Government of Japan had been installed on local fishing vessels throughout the country.
Aiming to secure additional engines, a two-member Maldives delegation, consisting of Mr Fathuhulla Jameel from the Department of External Affairs and former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who at the time served as Deputy Ambassador of Maldives in Colombo, met with the Ambassador of Japan to Maldives Mr Akira Yoshioka. The delegation requested an additional 300 diesel engines, and should a grant not be possible, they also sought the possibility of purchasing the engines from the Japanese company on an instalment basis.
The meeting was a success, and in the span of a few years, the Japanese Yanmar Company Limited opened Yanmar Diesel Engine Service Centres in Meemu Atoll’s Mulah, Lhaviyani Atoll’s Naifaru, Dhaalu Atoll’s Kudahuvadhoo, and Raa’s Ungoofaaru. Japanese instructors from Yanmar Company Limited, based in Malé, also trained locals in the maintenance and repair of marine diesel engines. Several Maldivians also received specialised training in Japan.
Elevating one of the key propellers of the Maldives’ economy and assisting in its government-led transition from traditional means to mechanised operations, within a notably brief period, is no doubt of UNDP’s greatest achievements since its arrival in the country. As we mark the passing of half a century to this huge milestone, the story of how the mechanization of dhonis revolutionised fishing remains one of the most meaningful chapters of change in the country’s economy and fisheries sector.
Today, the traditional fishing vessels on which Maldivian fishermen catch tuna ‘one at a time’ are sparklingly modern versions of their former selves, each equipped with the latest in marine navigational technology. Yet, the fishing industry has remained authentic, favouring the poleand-line technique on traditionally shaped dhonis over many arguably more profitable (albeit destructive) methods. Perhaps most impressive, however, is that the indigenous fishing communities of Maldives have grown to be the largest of their kind in the world – sustainable, environmentally friendly – wholly locally owned, and operated. Thanks to the right guidance, and a hearty respect for ancestral knowledge, our fisheries sector successfully sail the tides of modernity, whilst keeping tradition close to heart – in true Maldivian fashion.
Haisinthu - one of the first Engine Boat’s in Maldives
Yatch Sadas anchored at Dhiggaru
FUVAHMULAH’S BLUEPRINT FOR URBAN RESILIENCE
By Mariyam Malsa
In a rapidly urbanizing world, it is only natural to find ourselves drawn toward those paving the way toward our ambitions of living in sustainable cities and well-preserved environments, who are transforming utopian dreams into tangible realities. For the Maldives, a nation that only gained two more cities a few years ago, having had a single urban capital for decades, the aspirations laid out under SDG 11- Sustainable Cities are more relevant than ever. One city making strides in establishing itself as “inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable” is administratively categorized as Gnaviyani Atoll, a unique formation that is home solely to Maldives’ third largest island - the city of Fuvahmulah.
Fuvahmulah City Mayor: Ismail Rafeeq
The bustling urban centre reached the population milestone of a city in 2016 and having been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2020, Fuvahmulah champions one of Maldives’ most trailblazing blueprints for sustainable development. The makeup of the island is distinct as well, boasting two of the largest freshwater lakes in the country; Bandaara kilhi and Dhadimagu kilhi. Both lakes are surrounded by a marsh area dominated by grass species, some of which are locally endemic to the island, and a tree line populated by species such as Indian Java Plums (Janbu), Alexander Laurel Wood (Funa) and coconut palms as well as vast commercial taro fields. Totalling around 65 percent of the island’s overall land area, the wetlands were granted protected status eight years before Fuvahmulah earned its ‘Reserve’ status.
Drawing on the underpinning reasons for the positive conservation record, Fuvahmulah City Mayor Ismail Rafeeq asserted his stance that, should these eco-rich sites be lost, then Fuvahmulah would “cease to be itself”. The mayor expressed his impassioned opinion that the nature of how biodiversity is embedded into the very identity of Fuvahmulah, bolsters efforts to protect them.
Officially established on 14 September 2018, Fuvahmulah’s Nature Park is furnished with ecotourism structures that include a recreational centre and a boardwalk at each wetland area, all of which are designed with preservation of the area’s rich biodiversity in mind to protect the island’s particularly delicious Janbu growth, to locally endemic upriver orange mangrove (Maavasho), as well as migratory bird species such as the Grey Heron, Indian Pond Heron, Little Egret and Great White Egret. Hawwa Rasheed, Assistant Director of the Environment Section at the Fuvahmulah City Council Secretariat, opined that it was crucial to balance conservation goals with the creation of viable economic opportunities. As it stands, all conservation attempts at the Nature Park are carried forward in tandem with economically viable activities like guided tours, barbeque grill hire, and renting of canoes,
paddle boats and bicycles, offered at the recreational centre.
“We cannot protect an area without support from the local community”, declared the passionate advocate, underscoring the indispensable role of local communities in implementing management plans for easily accessible wetland areas. According to Hawwa, public doubt regarding the opportunity cost of protection must be allayed - a difficult endeavour currently achieved by demonstrating how the longstanding popularity of sites such as Kodakilhi, a location within Bandaarakilhi famous for mud baths, could be sustainably leveraged across locals and tourists to provide economic benefits for generations to come.
Like the abundance of lush natural environments that grace the island, Fuvahmulah is also distinguished by a rich and storied past, made evident through several monuments that attest to the country’s lesser known but nonetheless remarkable heritage. The most dated historical sites are the remains of a Buddhist stupa and the Vasho-Veyo, a circular stone bath crafted from coral stone. Besides these significant remnants from Maldives’ Buddhist history, Fuvahmulah is also the proud location of the country’s oldest mosque; Gemmiskiy. Established on the site of a former Buddhist monastery shortly after Maldives’ conversion to Islam in
1153, the structure itself was crafted with the intricate coral stone carving techniques common to Maldivian mosques of antiquity and is located next to an ancient cemetery.
Mayor Rafeeq noted that the cultural heritage of the island was not only held in high esteem by locals but also enjoyed steady popularity among tourists and island hoppers alike. As such, he assured that the protection of these monuments is among the top priorities of the City Council. Routine preservation efforts, requiring utmost care and precision, are conducted with technical assistance from the Ministry of Arts and Culture. To supplement routine upkeep that ensures these landmarks continue to stand the test of time, the mayor revealed that the council is also currently in the works to establish a museum to showcase the island’s antiquated history.
Not only does Fuvahmulah demonstrate how weaving cultural identity, and the value of biodiversity can make a pivotal difference - by allowing policymakers to embed them into more meaningful development goals - but the city also distinguishes itself by the sheer resilience of its approach to every obstacle.
To offer a comprehensive solution to challenges in protecting the wetlands, namely wildfires, waste disposal in
the vicinity and unintended damage from agricultural activity, the land use management plan drafted under funding from the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has recently been approved. As per the mayor, once implemented, the framework will regulate activities in the area while still allowing economic benefits to be reaped.
Nonetheless, perhaps the most pressing environmental problem, one that has mounted over many years and that continues to plague Fuvahmulah, is the issue of coastal erosion. Since the establishment of the harbour, at least 2.6 kilometres of land has severely eroded, with some areas losing up to 15 to 21 metres of sand. This racks up a further milieu of problems ranging from property damage and saltwater intrusion into the freshwater lens in the aftermath of storm surges, impacting vegetation and wreaking havoc on crops.
Although the City Council is currently overseeing a coastal revetment project to address threats to the demarcations of the Fuvahmulah coast, yet another set of challenges rear ahead. For instance, struggles to manage municipal waste and the proliferation of vehicles pose significant air pollution risks. In addition to reducing the quantity of waste ending up at the landfill, the
mayor expressed that the initiative would support local agriculture.
Of course, there’s more in the Council’s bag of tricks. In response to rising concerns over air pollution, the mayor confirms that a vehicle management regulation is also in the works to further address this issue, the success of which is planned to be measured against data collected by the two air quality monitoring stations established in Fuvahmulah. Major top-down projects to respond to environmental challenges are also complemented by interventions that highlight community participation. One noteworthy example is the mobile application currently under development to alleviate littering. Once launched the app will allow citizens to report issues and enable authorities to monitor progress.
Fuvahmulah’s direct and dedicated approach to environmental challenges also translates to the island’s choice of community interventions to manage social problems. Not unlike many islands in the Maldives, the population of Fuvahmulah is in the midst of a substance abuse epidemic. The city’s current strategy to manage addiction involves collaborating with the Ministry of Health to operationalize detox centres as well as exploring community-driven solutions like reintegration into society through employment opportunities.
On that note, unemployment is another major factor that exacerbates the prevalence and impact of other social issues - a major concern for the developing city. In this arena, the City Council heavily prioritizes the creation of additional jobs by offering full cooperation to state-owned corporations and institutions that have sought out Fuvahmulah as a location for their large-scale call centres. Speaking to the future, the council is also planning to establish office complexes that can help encourage the creation of further job opportunities for its population, particularly the island’s youth.
No sustainable drive towards development would be complete without the active participation of a key stakeholder—women. According to the President of the NGO Women in Fuvahmulah (WIF), Aminath Shehenaz, the women of Fuvahmulah face myriad difficulties including domestic violence, family breakdown, mental health issues, financial disempowerment and housing shortages. WIF works proactively with the community to offer support to women by bridging gaps in accessing legal assistance as well as organizing sessions on crucial topics such as women’s health, mental health and
child rearing with experts. The NGO also collaborates with other organizations such as Women in Tech to encourage women to explore opportunities in STEM fields and the Miyaru Programme to facilitate professional divemaster training. Describing women as an under-mobilized group to drive positive social change, Shehenaz pointed out how adequate female representation at the policy-making level could shift the paradigm on crucial issues plaguing women. Overall, she noted that the WIF’s numerous efforts to support local women were a precursor to more widereaching impactful interventions that the NGO is dedicated to carrying out, following in-depth research.
All in all, appearances suggest Fuvahmulah is well on its way to achieving its dream of a sustainable, beautiful and balanced island metropolis. All plans, schemes and efforts to address challenges and further development fall seamlessly under the five overarching goals of sustainable economic development, community wellbeing, establishing a planned liveable city, creating a green beautiful city and strengthening council governance. However, calling attention to the fact that realizing aspirations to
create a healthy city is an undertaking that often taxes readily available resources, Mayor Rafeeq acknowledged the city council’s budgetary and technical limitations, and expressed the necessity of public and private-sector partnerships as well as foreign assistance. In particular, the mayor spoke of the technical and financial support from UNDP Maldives’ as having been crucial in reaching development milestones, adding that “such assistance continues to be paramount to achieving our vision”.
Today, interest in cultivating liveable, healthy and sustainable cities is at an all-time high with population projections forewarning an increase in the growth of urban centres, both worldwide and in the Maldives. At such a crucial time, cities such as Fuvahmulah shine a light on how combining a laser focus on sustainability at the policy level and a head-on approach to tackling challenges can make a game-changing difference. UNDP Maldives celebrates the hard-won successes and milestones achieved by Fuvahmulah and remains a steadfast partner as the city continues its journey to create a sustainable and prosperous future.
UNDP’S SILENT ACHIEVER:
Shaheem Razee
By Nafaahath Ibrahim
Charming and good-natured are some of the first thoughts that may come to mind just a few minutes into any conversation with the affable Mr Shaheem Razee. Peppering light chuckles between sentences, with an unmistakable twinkle in his eye, his good humour and love for laughter shines through - hinting at what has made him such a memorable personality for everyone he’s worked with at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Maldives.
“How I came to join the UNDP team is a funny tale”, declared Raazee, brightly.
“Picture this, it was just right after (former President) Nasir’s reign ended and (former President) Maumoon took over. Within a few weeks, I found myself out of work over vague reasoning. Something about being careless towards assigned tasks.”
Shrugging off the pregnant pause that followed, Razee said that finding himself unexpectedly looking for work was difficult. However, not long after, having heard of a vacancy in project assistance for a UNESCO project funded by UNDP, Shaheem decided to try his luck–and was pleasantly surprised to be called in.
“Whilst I was working for the UNESCO project, a vacancy for the post of Programme Assistant at UNDP opened up. I can’t quite recall who, but one of my friends at UNDP asked me why I wasn’t applying for the job”. “I shrugged, said, okay I will. And applied”.
These events unfolded in the year 1981, when the UNDP Head Office in Malé Island was located at the Alivaage Residence.
“That was only the beginning. Since then, I stayed with UNDP until my retirement in May 2009.”
It was with an inspiring note of confidence that he then declared, “I enjoyed my work at UNDP, no doubt.”
According to Razee, at the time, [when his journey began] UNDP was operated largely under the guidance of Deputy Resident Representative, based in Sri Lanka’s Colombo City; an Italian by the name of Franco Siciliano.
“[Franco] was very good to me. I later found out that Franco had written to the Government specifically requesting that they allow me to work for UNDP… or something along those lines”.
While such an effort was something out of the ordinary, seeking Governmental approval was not usually necessary.
To this day, Razee says he is still puzzled as to why it was required,
as he did not even have any criminal records or such charges to his name, but also remains jubilant at the result–for many happy chapters of his life would be written whilst working for the UNDP.
Then, one fine day out of the blue, not long after he began working at UNDP, he received a rather ominous call summoning him to the President’s Office.
“I presumed this was it for me [in UNDP], and that it was all over. My immediate assumption was that things were happening just as it did back in President Nasir’s times; that they would call me in, assign me a [governmental] post, and I would not be able to decline.”
“I even said as much to some of my colleagues at the office right after the call.”
So, it was with an overwhelming sense of dread that Razee dragged himself to the President’s Office where a Private Secretary informed him that it was President Maumoon himself who had arranged the impromptu tête-àtête.
To his surprise, the conversation was not at all what he expected, and his worries about a bleak outcome proved completely unnecessary.
Instead, the President expressed that Razee’s exemplary performance had been brought to his attention, and provided assurances that the Government looked forward to what he would achieve should he continue working for UNDP.
A Climb to the Top Making a Meaningful Difference
Razee’s career at UNDP began with a humble role in the administrative department. At first, his duties did not involve any decision-making ability, and most people would describe his tasks as being secretarial in nature.
However, Razee viewed his work differently. He did not see the role as trivial, nor did he consider any aspect of it beneath him, proceeding to infuse his role with complete dedication. Eventually, this unwavering focus paid off.
It was not long before he would proceed to lead various projects in the programmes department and find himself promoted up the rungs to far more senior roles.
Ultimately, he found himself drawn back into the administrative world, and when he finally made the decision to retire, he was serving the role of Operations Manager in the Administration and Finance Department.
His very last title at the UNDP, however, was the position of ‘Assistant Resident Representative’ among the first Maldivians to serve in this role.
Razee’s climb is no doubt motivational at every step. It shows us that even the smallest of tasks can be meaningful, and that hard work and dedication will always pay off.
It is also the reason why he achieved such great heights, while remaining ever so loved and respected by all those lucky enough to call him colleague, or more likely, friend.
One of the biggest takeaways from the conversation was that Razee is a strong believer in the valuable role that UNDP plays in assisting the development of nations.
“UNDP had a major impact on the Maldives”, he confirmed. “I am witness to the fact that they uplifted our country, our people and alleviated persisting troubles in many different ways.”
As evidence to this claim, he cited UNDP’s hand in the establishment of health centres across the archipelago to the institution’s stirring elevation of the country’s education sector, and improvements that were facilitated, a bit later on, in fisheries and agriculture sectors as well.
UNDP was also a major advocate for sustainability in the Maldives, alleged Raazee. Feasibility studies over renewable energy sources, specifically solar and wind, were conducted as early as the beginning of the 1980s. The findings of this study concluded that while wind speed was not very promising, solar energy would work really well in the island nation.
“To my memory, solar panels were brought, and installed in a mosque, a school and in the administrative offices of certain islands. Unfortunately, it proved a little too early for the country and didn’t quite catch on at the time.”
Many years later, the results of the experiment would likely prove useful for the country, which has since changed tune and is now looking to significantly increase solar energy reliance per annum. The idea is acknowledged by the interviewee with a smile. Perhaps indeed.
Regardless, even at the time, UNDP’s interventions in the local fisheries industry were far more fruitful. “The introduction of second-generation fishing vessels [the first traditional
boats bearing modern engines] proved to be successful, even revolutionary.”
Another noteworthy project that he spoke of was “the water supply study performed in Malé, which noted then that the island’s freshwater layer was heading towards depletion. It also projected that were actions not taken, the supply would completely become saline. And that is what ultimately ended up happening.”
The Importance of UN Agencies
Reiterating a need for the presence of UN agencies in developing nations, especially Small Island Developing States (SIDS), he said “the assistance of cooperative agencies like UNDP, I believe, is necessary not only in the Maldives, but for every country.”
A lull in his otherwise cheery tone, Shameem expressed concerns over delays by public factions in taking action on the recommendations of UNDP and development networks.
“In my experience it does take a lot of time for advice or research to translate into movement. In some cases, years and years pass after the studies have taken place, reports were published, before we see anything actioned accordingly.”
From Razee’s perspective, through the input and assistance from neutral sources such as UN agencies meant that smaller nations would receive a greater platform for their voices to be heard and be less heavily reliant on their stronger counterparts. Not only does this bolster their sovereign independence but it also provides an opportunity to raise concerns that larger nations are not likely to otherwise take into consideration.
The best path to getting external aid for development, as per Razee, was through agencies like the UN bodies. “Leaders do not have to align with a particular [external] government that way.” To him, that is key, a
trustworthy path to linking nations and development. “Otherwise, when taking the bilateral route, you become indebted to a singular alliance, or worse, foreign political faction.”
A Family Man, Foremost
So, having worked at the UNDP for a considerable amount of time, does Raazee still keep up with UNDP Maldives’ most recent ongoings?
While his answer clearly indicated his days were filled with as much dedication and commitment as before, it also seemed like these days, his focus lay in an entirely different direction.
In short, all of his present concerns revolved solely around his family, and one of his children in particular.
“To be frank, I have not been keeping up with much. The thing is, I don’t have the time.”
“My wife and I are currently based in Sri Lanka with our daughter who lives with a disability. She requires round the clock care, which we are happy to provide.”
Razee also noted that while people continue to send him work proposals, right now, the needs of his family trumps everything else.
“Even following my retirement, I do get offers every now and then, for consultancy and such. I decline everything because I know that I cannot take anything on presently and do it justice.”
Raazee’s Hall of Honours Gratitude in Abundance
Shaheem Raazee is not one to boast about his achievements. He is a humble and modest man, whose appreciation of simple joys and passion for helping others is far greater than the self.
A prolonged pause followed the subject of his many feats, finally, a chuckle or three later, he admitted there were a few anecdotes he’d like to share.
“Well, for instance, at the climax of Maldives’ democratic movement, Ahmed Abbas sought asylum at UNDP, although he was shortly escorted out.”
“There was a lot of tension, as you can imagine, in a way I became mediator for communicating the situation. Then-Foreign Minister Dr Ahmed Shaheed was frequently on the line and then I relayed messages back and forth to our Resident Representative. It was a time when I felt useful and seen as a trusted person within UNDP.”
With pride, Razee highlighted that the trust inlaid by the nation’s Foreign Minister to speak to him on such matters, made him feel valued.
The fact that these moments that carry the most weight with him certainly shines a particular light on the character and person he is.
Although Raazee seems determined to downplay his career, even calling himself “not someone who is looking for limelight” and “not an ambitious guy at all, by any stretch”, the man is remarkable.
The fact is that has made significant contributions at every phase of his journey, in his work and to the people that love him. However, that is not to suggest that Razee does not take pride in his work with UNDP.
He believes that he has made a difference in the lives of many people and feels grateful for any opportunity to have helped bring positive change to his country.
“I thank God that I have a good life without being indebted to anyone, and that’s it,” he said, warmly, and just as the smile on his face was evident in his voice, the strength of his character manifests throughout the telling of this inspiring story.
By Nafaahath Ibrahim
An Unconventional but Inspiring Drive to Success
Mild mannered and soft spoken, Ahmed Riyaz had naught but a few simple and humble sentences to offer when prompted to speak about himself.
“I come from a very poor family, and got married quite early, right after my (GCE) Ordinary Levels”, he shared, jumping straight into the thick of it.
“At the age of 18, I was married, and by 19, I was a father.”
After having two daughters and one son, Riyaz began an era of pursuing higher education and eventually, that ending with him adding both bachelor’s and master’s degrees to his name.
While that’s all quite the tale already, the true narrative begins much later. In his own words, if asked now, Riyaz would most certainly be unable to predict the events that would unfold as the tale goes on.
Bumpy Road to UNDP
For Riyaz, the path to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) began rather unexpectedly. Before joining, he had his own business and was doing well for himself. Then in 2020, having to go abroad in order to do a major surgery for one of his daughters—a veritable star who also happens to have achondroplasia—ended up being a monumental step that changed the entire course of his journey.
Doting father that he is, Riyaz did not wish to rely on the social health insurance scheme Aasandha, and instead chose to sell his business to finance all the medical expenses. Her surgery was a success, and the family was able to return after about a month later.
At the time, the waves of COVID-19 were slowly sweeping across the globe. Ultimately, they reached the shores of Maldives as well.
Things escalated quickly, and within a week of their return, the worst of it hit, and the whole country went into lockdown. With no business to support the family, eventually, his savings started to drain. The need to ensure food remained on the table set Riyaz out looking for jobs.
When he saw the post seeking a driver for UNDP, he immediately applied, and luckily got selected.
Opening New Doors
And so, in 2021, he began working as driver for the UNDP Head of Office, the Resident Representative, Enrico Gaveglia.
Touching briefly upon the typical stereotypes on the job market, Riyaz said that no one expected him to be as educated as he was. In fact, his ability to speak fluent English and his knowledge in different areas piqued most peoples’ curiosity - including Enrico’s.
“So, he [Enrico] started asking me about my background. I told him everything. Talked about being appointed as the associate for Women Organizing for Change in Agriculture and Natural Resource Management (WOCAN) from Maldives, doing the gender integrated planning, when I worked in Information for All Programme (IFAP), a project in the Fisheries Ministry.”
“He then wanted me to get involved in the gender component of the organization. My colleagues approached me, and I gave my input for it.”
This was only just the beginning for the still-expanding role that Riyaz would go on to play within the UNDP and its activities.
Playing Double Roles
After a colleague fell sick, a request came from the procurement department, seeking his assistance.
“Once I got started, after observing the progress made and how I worked, I was asked to do the CITS (Chartered Institute of Procurement). It is a certification each procurement officer should obtain before being a ‘buyer’.”
“At UNDP, a buyer means a procurement officer. Having now completed level one and two, I am planning to take on level three this year.”
As for his original position, UNDP has seen to its evolution. While he continues to work as a driver, he is now active in procurement as well.
“I have two roles now. I do not believe the RR wants to hire another driver,” declared Riyaz, with wellearned pride.
It was certainly obvious that UNDP has morphed from being just his place of employment to a point of passion.
Ambitions Then, Ambitions Now
Looking back to when he first joined UNDP, Riyaz described himself as, at the time, not having many aspirations beyond fulfilling the need for a stable job.
“Status and titles do not matter to me. Being employed by an institution such as UNDP felt like it would provide a stable employment.”
And, of course, given his predicament at the time, that was more than enough. However, Riyaz’s commitment to the institution, as with all things in his life, remains steadfast.
Riyaz revealed that, to his imagination, the only scenario in which he would leave the UNDP was if he were to restart his own business.
In fact, across the conversation, Riyaz could not help but reiterate his dedication for UNDP, stating that he simply fell in love with his workplace in a way that does not make him want to leave, even to pursue his own venture.
Only a few speak with such passion and love for their place of employment, and so it was a joy to listen to someone express such positivity. It was certainly obvious that UNDP has morphed from being just his place of employment to a point of passion.
“I think now I am becoming a person who could proudly represent the UNDP. Someone whose input is valued.”
“Eventually I want to be completely involved in the procurement process. They [department] have seen my potential, and thus far, I have not heard any negative comments from any colleague,” he said.
Striking a Balance
Despite his love for UNDP, and experiences working elsewhere, he reminisced about working for himself. For him, it was something that challenged and pushed him in the best of ways. He also said there is a world of difference between being your own boss and working as an employee.
Subsequently, he revisited his desire to restart a business.
“And I do earn an extra bit of income from renting, from which I can start a business. But because I love UNDP so much, I cannot seem to want to.”
It seemed as if the biggest challenge for Riyaz now was to find that point of balance in working for UNDP and expanding on his personal ventures.
“No, really, I mean… because of that I don’t want to leave. Don’t want to go elsewhere or change anywhere too.”
Riyaz expressed that working with UNDP has contributed to him gaining more respect from family, friends and others as well.
He added that the most important people in his life, his wife and children are also very proud of him and where he is now.
Looking to the Future
Venturing into his future aspirations, it was a given that Riyaz does see himself working within the UN system.
“If there is another position within UNDP, I am not saying I won’t apply. I will apply.”
The real question was where he sees himself within the organization in five or ten years on.
His response was short and simple but delivered with an impressive amount of confidence and certainty.
“I see myself at the managerial level.”
The real question was where he sees himself within the organization in five or ten years on....
[At UNDP I have the] best colleagues. In other words, ‘Varah
Salhi’.
A Final Word of Love
“UNDP provides the perfect work environment,” Riyaz concluded, appreciatively.
He is also clearly a team player, who had nothing but endless positive things to say regarding his boss and coworkers.
After pausing for a minute to think, he smilingly said, “The boss is the best boss. For as long as he remains at UNDP I will not leave, no matter what higher position I am offered. [At UNDP I have the] best colleagues. In other words, ‘varah salhi’.”
Riyaz made his way to UNDP under tough circumstances, when he was desperately searching for an option to remain afloat. It seemed apt to seek his thoughts and words that could be offered to someone in similar choppy waters.
“My advice would be, just don’t give up. Just don’t give up,” he said, brimming with his characteristic optimism and resilience.
“That’s it. There is always a way.”
The words of wisdom he offered though simple are also powerful, strengthened by experience and faith, and are sure to resonate with anyone looking for a sign to hold on, when faced with the challenges and turbulence that so often shape our lives.
NASHIDA SATTAR
FROM LOCAL TO GLOBAL: REFLECTIONS ON A UNDP CAREER
I started work with UNDP Maldives on a General Service contract in 2001, and by the time I left UNDP Maldives in 2008, I was the Head of Governance and Rule of Law. Those seven years were critical years for the Maldives, with the graduation from a Least Development Country, the devastating India Ocean Tsunami in 2005, and the Constitution reform process.
This meant that in the very formative years of my career – I had to step up, take responsibilities and collaborate with others to not only meet the myriad of challenges that the country was facing, but also seize the few opportunities present to build back better. That steep learning curve shaped my future career path as well.
For instance, I had the opportunity to implement projects on recovery and rehabilitation, constitutional reform, the revision of the penal code, the formation of the Human Rights Commission and also establish the groundwork
for green growth in the country and support income generation especially for women.
I definitely learnt the basics at UNDP Maldives, especially during the tsunami and the subsequent events that made evident the absolute environmental fragility of my beautiful country. This certainly sharpened my commitment to work on issues on climate change, and voice and participation.
On the personal side, I was a young mother (my son Ryan was 4 and I had my daughter Zara while working for UNDP Maldives). At the time UNDP had rolled out policies on work life balance and I cannot be more thankful for my supervisors who provided me the flexibility these policies allow for me to work and take care of my young family. As a supervisor now, this familiarity with the policies helps me to support my staff maintain work life balance in the office.
home, and it is great to see Maldives moving the needle. That is not to say that it doesn’t face the development challenges faced by many middleincome countries, but it is heartening to see that Maldives endures to put its best foot forward. It is also great to see UNDP Maldives continue to be a critical partner in this process.
I am currently the Deputy Resident Representative in Eritrea. As a senior manager the role of course is different. With the RR, I lead and motivate the team to deliver on UNDPs commitments. The time I spent at UNDP Maldives as a National Officer has been invaluable for me in this regard, especially to come to a new duty station and connect and build trust with the National Officers who are in many ways the driving force behind UNDP’s success.
stations I work, I am often the only Maldivian in the country, and there is loneliness there, but I have also made lifelong friendships in every duty station.
Here in Eritrea, I keep insisting that my people came to the Maldives from East Africa - there is some historical evidence to this...but its a long shot I still find it romantic that maybe my great-great-great-great mother was right here walking these same streets, playing in these fields. With the Maldives being so strategically located probably this would be true for Mongolia, (where I was last posted) or now here in the Horn of Africa.
I would often be told that I am the first Maldivian that they have ever met, and I would say yes chances are slim, we are not even a half million of us.
Of course, I continue to closely watch the changes that are happening back .
I find it challenging being so far away from home, especially from my aging parents, uncles and aunts. Since the children left, I am mostly alone, my husband lives and works in Hong Kong. Also, in most of the duty
I cannot be prouder to being counted as one.
THE RISE OF WOMEN IN THE JUDICIARY AND THE PATH TO STRONGER GOVERNANCE
By Justice Huzaifa Mohamed Article Compiled by Shahudha Mohamed
As a law student, I found myself immersed in the intricate world of legal judgements. While I pored over judgements during intense study sessions, I became fascinated with the idea of legal decisionmaking and started contemplating the broader concept of women in the Judiciary.
I remember a specific moment during a brief session with the then Attorney General, where I broached a question as to when women would finally find their place on the bench. Little did I know how far that initial spark of curiosity would propel me in the years to come.
Soon after I ventured into practice, it became clear to me that judgeship was what held my interest. When that opportunity presented itself in 2007, a time when the idea of a female judge was still rather alien in the Maldives, I was fully aware that the path I was embarking on would be filled with challenges and controversies.
As one of the first woman judges in the country, I understood that my journey would likely be marked by either outright rejection or a gradual, hard-fought acceptance. Only one
thing was certain–the road ahead would be anything but easy.
Sitting on the court bench, I found myself facing a system ruled by men and men alone. I was an outsider in uncharted territory, navigating a landscape where male voices were readily heard and seldom questioned., As a woman judge, I knew that gaining acceptance would always be, and in a sense remains so to this day, one of my biggest challenges.
As my journey progressed, it continued to reveal stark gender insensitivities rooted in the judicial system–a reminder of how deeply ingrained discrimination could be, even in spaces where it is not intentionally wielded.
In this society entrenched with patriarchal norms, where few women held positions of power and authority, I had to prove myself at every turn, overcoming scepticism and demonstrating my capabilities to the public, to parties to the dispute, to my peers, and at times to my own staff, in a way that my male colleagues never had to. The fact that I was opinionated and adamant in my beliefs was not well-received, simply because such things were unexpected from a woman. However, in the long run, I believe sticking to my opinions and voicing them out without hesitation has made all the difference.
Despite my academic qualifications, the uphill battle to have my opinions valued, gain recognition, and prove my worth remained a constant, neverending battle. We must acknowledge that this is the reality for every woman in the Judiciary, if not across all sectors.
You may shudder thinking, “not that feminist chatter again”, but the truth is, if we are to be honest and committed towards the meaningful change we want to see–it has to be said. Although no one questions the competency of a man with a judicial appointment, women are constantly cross-examined on how they will balance work and home, whether their emotions are in check, what
happens when they are with child or when they give birth to one.
I know I speak for many of us when I say that, in this line of work, we constantly operate under pressure, but that is nothing new to the Maldivian woman, who also must withstand myriad, gender-specific pressures within society, at home, and with their peers. Interestingly, in our line of work, we are judged simply because we dared to be one. So indeed, we work twice as hard to ‘earn our place’; to be appreciated and accepted for our intelligence, knowledge, and capacity.
Gender insensitivity, when wielded unconsciously and without intention,
is, in some ways, worse. It serves as an indicator of how deeply rooted the discrimination truly is, and therefore, advocating for change and ensuring that this is done so in a palpable manner is no small feat. This mindset cannot be changed overnight. To this day, the struggle continues.
Although the judicial sector has made gradual progress over the years, many of the challenges observed decades ago continue to be prevalent today. Twenty odd years ago, these courts were not an accommodating place. There were multiple barriers to accessing justice for a public unaccustomed to such systematic procedures, from numerous forms, to gaining easy entry without being
physically present. Nothing was in the system. Statistics were recorded in logbooks, statements handwritten and re-typed, and the system was vehemently resistant to digital adaptation. Training and judicial education were not prioritised, especially with respect to support staff. Judgments lacked rationale and were elusive and lengthy–sometimes evading common comprehension despite being written in our native tongue. Many of these challenges still stand in the way of access to justice.
One of the most significant challenges faced today, is a lack of awareness over legal rights and court procedures and questionable competency of the products of legal education. This creates a disconnect between courts and the public, especially among the vulnerable and disadvantaged. These issues are further compounded by an ineffective legal aid mechanism which is confined only to serious criminal offences and leads to many marginalized people left unrepresented in the courtrooms, especially in family disputes. In my opinion, training support staff should be given the utmost priority. Focused and coherent training on gender sensitisation, across all court employees, would no doubt transform the court experience had by our most vulnerable populations.
Legislative frameworks that are the product and natural progression of a functional and advanced judicial system, when adopted without sufficient cognizance of financial and challenges in capacity, are difficult to implement - however well intended. The Judiciary is and will always become an easy target of people’s frustrations. The unfortunate reality is that the inequitable distribution of state resources results in an unagile justice system. Reform is a collaborative process that requires good faith from all stakeholders engaged in these efforts–it is not a competition amongst state institutions as to who scores best.
It is my firm belief that judges play an incredibly important role in igniting meaningful legal, institutional, and social change. That is why, during my time as a Chief Judge of the Family
Court, I strived to tackle the lack of legal awareness and information. Dissemination of information to the public from the Family Court to the public was one of my highest priorities. At the time, practice dictated that judgments relating to family matters would not be published. Nevertheless, we set out to make those judgments accessible to the public, with due regard given to the unique social circumstances of Maldives and the privacy of parties in a dispute.
As the world changed, a new information ecosystem emerged, and we too had to partake. Although social media was unfamiliar waters for us, we began publishing monthly statistics to elevate the Court’s transparency. We also curated family-related content and published precise legal information in an easierto-understand, if not compelling, manner. All these changes, I believe, helped forge public trust and interest in the Court by fostering awareness and making the Court more accessible.
I am also proud to be part of the Induction Training Programme for newly appointed Judges, a project that involves me delivering regular instruction to judges on the Domestic Violence Prevention Act and the Child Rights Protection Act. This programme is the initial stage within which judges are introduced to their role, and as a trainer and mentor, I have been able to guide them in their first steps using my share of experience, insight, and knowledge. We have recently tested specific mentoring sessions for newly appointed woman judges within this programme, with highly positive feedback. Under my leadership, I
engaged in persistent efforts to bring forth the new Family Court Procedure that stands today.
The story of the growth of Maldives’ Judiciary System is a gradual, but impactful one. The quality of judgments being delivered today is noteworthy. They are wellresearched and well-reasoned, stating comprehensive rules that provide clarity on questions of law, and developing jurisprudence in a precise manner. Hearings can now be conducted online. Many of the hearings of the appellate courts are webcasted, while some are live-streamed. Women Judges are now represented in all tiers of the Judiciary. While we may applaud this, this is representative of only 14.9 percent of the Judiciary. We have scratched but only the surface of bridging gender disparity, and we have a long, long way yet to go.
I would like to end this on a personal note, with a quote that has left a deep impression on me and inspires me to always question the various limitations, restrictions, and boundaries that we set for ourselves. Once asked when there would be enough women on the United States Supreme Court, late United States Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg responded: when all nine seats of the US Supreme Court are filled by female Judges.
“And I say when there are nine, people are shocked. But there’s been nine men, and nobody’s ever raised a question about that.”
EMPOWERED WOMEN LEADERS EMPOWERING OTHERS
By Shahudha Mohamed
FATHIMATH IBRAHIM DIDI
(Tuttu Goma) (1918–2008)
Princess Fathimath Ibrahim Didi, known as Tuttu Goma, was a member of the royal family of Maldives, and a pioneering figure in Maldivian history. Serving as the first Speaker of the Senate under President Amin Didi’s administration, she held office from 1952 to 1954. During this period, she
First Speaker of the Senate of the Maldive Islands
First Female Minister of the Maldives
also made history as the first female minister of the Maldives.
In 1953, at the conclusion of President Amin’s presidency, Tuttu Goma was offered the crown of the Maldives. She declined the offer upon learning of objections from the clergy, as a
gesture of respect for the cultural and religious sentiments of the time.
Educated privately at home, Tuttu Goma was not only fluent in Dhivehi but also proficient in Arabic and Sinhalese.
MOOMINA HALEEM
As the first woman elected to Parliament in 1974, Moomina Haleem remains a trailblazer in Maldivian politics, setting a bright example for generations to come.
Being the first Maldivian woman to complete higher studies in nursing, Moomina was appointed matron of the first government hospital,
First Woman Elected to Parliament First Maldivian Woman to Complete Higher Studies in Nursing First Female Cabinet Member of the Maldives
established in 1967 with the aid of Britain in Malé – a position she held until her election to Parliament. A trained nurse by profession, she was also the first woman to grace the Maldivian cabinet in 1977.
However, her promising career came to a halt during former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s regime–
mainly due to political differences. Leaving the country, Moomina lived in self-imposed exile for 28 years before she returned to the Maldives after Mohamed Nasheed was elected president in 2008.
RASHIDA YOUSUF
Honourable Raashida Yousuf:
A Pillar of Education and Women’s Empowerment
Raashida Yousuf has dedicated her career to advancing education and empowering women in the Maldives. Beginning her teaching career at Majeediyya School in 1974, she rose to become the head of Thaajuddeen School by 1989. Her passion for education laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to nurturing the educational landscape of the Maldives.
In 1993, she was appointed as the Minister of Youth, Women’s Affairs, and Sports, where she served until 2002, making history as the longest-
First Female Ambassador of the Maldives Former Minister of Youth, Women’s Affairs, and Sports Former Presidential nominee in the People’s Majlis Co-Founder of Hope for Women NGO
serving Minister for Women’s Affairs. Her leadership extended to the international stage, where she led the Maldivian delegation to the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995—a landmark event for global women’s rights.
From 2002 to 2004, Raashida served as the Maldives High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, followed by her role as President of the National Education Council from October 2004 to November 2008. She also served as a Presidential nominee in the People’s Majlis from February 2000 to October 2002, and in the People’s Special Majlis from October 2004 to August 2008.
Her academic achievements include a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Manchester, UK, and the President of the Maldives Special Award, which she received in 1989.
Even after retiring from public service, Raashida Yousuf continues to advocate for women’s rights. She co-founded Hope for Women, a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating violence against women and promoting gender equality. Her legacy in education and public service remains a source of inspiration for future generations.
AMEEZA KHALEEL
In 2000, after being appointed to the traditionally male-held position of Kuda Katheeba (Deputy Island Chief) at Addu Atoll’s Maradhoo, Ameeza became the first woman in the Maldives to fill a governance-level position on any island. She rose to the position of Katheeba (Island Chief) two years later, having completed the Katheeb Course and achieving first place in a class of 44 men.
With the changes to the governance system brought by the Decentralization Act, she now serves as the Assistant Council Executive of Addu City, focusing on social service.
First Woman in the Maldives to Hold a Governance-Level Position on an Island
Former Kuda Katheeba (Deputy Island Chief) and Katheeba (Island Chief) of Seenu Maradhoo
“When it comes to women, there is this notion that the position is just gifted to her–as if she doesn’t deserve it. With men, the idea that they are capable, experienced, educated, hardworking and that they deserve it, is immediately believed or hardly ever challenged,” Ameeza noted.
Ameeza’s success across a long and fulfilling 23-year career in governance can be attributed to the positive attitude and grace with which she has tackled every challenge that came her way, gender-specific or otherwise. By demonstrating strength and steadfastness she has earned massive respect in her community.
Although she is pleased with the increasing opportunities for women in political positions, Ameeza believes that socioeconomic challenges and cultural stigmas in the Maldives are notable obstacles that contribute to a lack of women in governance roles. She remains proud of the work she has done to amplify voices advocating for women’s empowerment, child rights, and social issues and hopes to see more women in governance roles in the future.
EVA ABDULLA
Eva Abdulla, one of Maldives’ longestserving female parliamentarians, served as a member of the People’s Majlis, the Parliament, for three consecutive terms until her resignation on December 3, 2023.
Politically allied to the recently founded ‘The Democrats’, she represented the constituents of Galolhu North and the last position held was as the Deputy Speaker of Parliament.
One of the country’s leading voices in the fight for women’s empowerment and equality, Eva noted that one of the biggest challenges for women in governance roles is that most spaces, whether it be the parliament or the upper stratum of political parties, are
One of the Maldives’ Longest-Serving Female Parliamentarians Former Deputy Speaker of Parliament
socially constructed for men. Although it has taken her generation a lifetime to try and redesign the system to include women, she agrees it is still in the works and nowhere near complete.
“When we walked in, we did not have much ammunition. Our mothers, certainly determined women themselves, barely had the opportunity to occupy these spaces. So, we walked in armed with their well wishes, and an eternal hope that we will make it better for the young girls and women coming with us, and after us. We walked in also knowing it is indeed our responsibility,” she said of her entry into the parliament.
In this regard, Eva continues to
be an energetic, determined, and strong-willed presence in the political sphere, inspiring a new generation of aspiring women. Her involvement in the Practice Parliament sessions conducted by the People’s Majlis in partnership with UNDP is just one notable example from a long list of contributions.
“Whatever else we are doing with our positions and our jobs, we need to ensure we keep striving to uphold that responsibility; to keep striving until these spaces, become a place where women can be equally regarded as intelligent beings making their decisions freely as individuals.”
By Shahudha Mohamed
Born in the north of Maldives, a multitude of my fondest childhood memories revolve around the unexplainable magic of dragonfly season. My cousins and I running barefoot in land plots overgrown with tall grass, tree-sap-soaked ekles - kiru iloshi in hand, trying to catch one of the many dragonflies hovering overhead, whizzing past low-hanging branches. There was something so pure about how our peals of laughter quieted as we crowded around a captured dragonfly to marvel at its unique beauty. To date, I am still fascinated by how globe skimmer wings shimmer in the sunlight like translucent mirrors.
Now an adult living in the bustling city, those days seem like forever ago. Flocks of skimmers, or the Pantala flavescens dragonfly of the family Libellulida, have become a rare sight, and the years merge together in the lack of their striking arrival marking the transition into yet another Iruvai season (Northeast monsoon).
For as long as Maldivians can remember, these dragonflies have swarmed across atolls every October, colliding with Hulhangu (Southwest) monsoon’s fourth-last nakaiy (one of the 13-14 day periods in Maldives’ indigenous calendar with its own characteristics and weather patterns) – earning the name “Hei Nakaiy Dhooni” in the North, which loosely translates to “the insects of Hei Nakaiy” in the local Dhivehi language.
This magical phenomenon happens annually like clockwork. It is such a normal and expected occurrence in the archipelago that most locals take it for granted, never really pondering the ‘how’s and ‘why’s of it. For us, it is a simple joy, part of our tropical symphony, that reminds us to look forward to brighter days.
However, Dr Charles Anderson, a marine researcher who moved to Maldives in 1983 to work at the Ministry of Fisheries, found himself unable to cast aside his curiosities as easily. After observing the arrival of dragonflies, same time each year, without fail for a decade, he set out to find some answers about these harbingers of the Northeast monsoon.
A Miraculous Migration
“In the islands, everybody grows up knowing about dragonflies. Young children spend that time every year during their childhood catching dragonflies with kiru iloshi… So, all Maldivians know about this, but nobody I spoke to is aware of where they’re coming from,” Dr Anderson said.
“I was curious to know what on earth was going on.”
Dragonflies need freshwater to breed – but there is little to no freshwater in the Maldives, so why were these insects swarming this archipelago in the middle of the Indian Ocean? When they first arrive in Maldives in
October, the wind is still blowing from the Southwest because Hulhangu is not yet over – so were these skimmers flying to Maldives against the wind?
Dr. Anderson’s research led him to uncover the longest, and one of the most extraordinary and unique insect migrations thus far observed on earth – globe skimmers shattered the record formerly held by the famed Monarch butterflies in North America.
“These animals are only about five centimetres long. They weigh about three hundred milligrams, so next to nothing,” Dr Anderson noted, marvelling at the fact that such a tiny insect could make a multigenerational journey of some 18,000 kilometres.
“They fly south and around the southern corner of the Himalayas, across northeast India. And then they fly diagonally across north India, straight across the Indian Ocean
from Goa, into Kenya, Tanzania, and then turn left and down into Southern Africa. Quite, quite an extraordinary migration,” and that, Dr Anderson said, is just one leg of the globe skimmer’s annual migratory circuit.
To understand how the globe skimmers can manage such a feat, one must understand the relationship between these insects to the monsoons themselves. Dr Anderson explained it like this:
When the sun is directly overhead, it heats up the air below. Hot air rises, so air is drawn from both sides to replace the vacuum left in its absence. These two air masses converge between the tropic of Cancer and Capricorn, forming the inter-tropical convergence zone (ITCZ). The hot air that rises eventually cools down to form a band of clouds around the tropics. These clouds carry the monsoon rains that are so familiar to both us and our beloved dragonflies.
Passion in Paradise
As the sun moves north and south with the changing seasons, the ITCZ moves north and south as well, crossing the equator. We observe Hulhangu and Iruvai when the ITZC drifts over the Maldives and the wind direction changes with its passing.
“It is the passage of the inter-tropical convergence zone that drives the monsoons – that is basically the monsoons,” Dr Anderson said.
Though initial observations made it seem like the skimmers were traveling against the strong monsoon winds, the opposite turned out to be true. They were, in fact, traveling high-altitude over the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), utilizing the air currents as a “conveyor belt” to carry them on their journey. This not only helps with their migratory flight,
but also guides the skimmers directly into the heart of the monsoon rains.
“Dragonflies are essentially freshwater animals that have a very brief adult stage that flies around. The globe skimmer is the exception. In the case of the globe skimmer, they have evolved to take advantage of the rains of the inter-tropical convergence zone,” Dr Anderson explained.
“If you’re a dragonfly, what better time to breed than the rains of the monsoon?”
When seasonal rains flood neighbouring India, it creates the perfect habitat for these insects to hatch out a new generation. Although most dragonfly species cannot take advantage of these short-lived conditions, the globe skimmer, with its brief larval stage, develops into adulthood within a span of weeks. This new generation of skimmers then arrives in Maldives on the ITCZ, essentially spending their honeymoon in the world’s leading tourist destination.
“Each generation – and there may be four, five generations per year – wherever the skimmers lay their eggs, the next generation of adults come out, they follow the wind and is carried to wherever the rains are falling now,” Dr Anderson said.
Complexities of Climate Change
dragonfly numbers, not enough of us are questioning why. Could it be due to the current ongoing climate crisis? Could it be caused by unpredictable weather patterns, or the hike in global temperatures? Is there a possibility of a future in which we forget the magical aspect of our changing seasons, and lose sight of the ‘Hei Nakaiy Dhooni’ completely?
Although Dr Anderson believes global warming could definitely have an impact on dragonfly migrations, he also said, ‘I don’t think we will lose dragonflies - not to climate change. But there are other factors.”
“What we do know is that the intertropical convergence zone is driven by something fixed, which is the apparent movement of the sun, the tilt of the earth, and the topography of continents – those things are not changing with climate change,” Dr Anderson stated.
So, he theorized that the ITCZ and its movement cannot be grossly impacted due to global warming and the ongoing climate crisis. Although the unprecedented times we live in may cause changes to natural phenomena, Dr Anderson believes that such changes would have to be relatively small.
“There is a lag between the movement of the sun overhead and the arrival of the inter-tropical convergence zone. Because of heat, or because of increased temperatures, that lag may get shorter and it can bring the season forward, but it can only be by a few days, not months,” he said.
Though we can find some relief in the fact that global warming does not yet pose a direct threat to our seasonal friends, we cannot make light of some other, more pressing factors that do.
There is no question that the number of dragonflies finding Maldivian shores has largely dwindled over recent years. Dr Anderson, who has kept records of dragonfly arrivals in the country for over two decades, confirms this assumption with concern.
Things are changing, but we seem to barely notice it. Despite the decline in
“‘I don’t think we will lose dragonflies - not to climate change. But there are other factors.”
Dr Anderson
Persecuted by Persistent Pollutants
“It is very clear that the number of dragonflies arriving every year in the Maldives has reduced. They are quite significantly down — and it’s not clear why that is, but the most likely reason is that the dragonflies that arrive in the Maldives come from India, and in India, there are a lot of pesticides being used,” Dr Anderson speculated.
Pesticides used in agriculture and to control mosquito populations kill off the dragonflies’ food supply. They also run off into streams and rivers, poisoning and exterminating dragonfly larvae. Most of these pesticides contain persistent organic pollutants (POPs) – hazardous chemicals that are resistant to degradation, accumulate over time, and threaten human health as well as the planet’s ecosystems.
“POPs reduce diseases like malaria, so they have their benefits, but the downside is enormous. Their effect on the ecosystem is horrendous,” said Dr Anderson.
The irony, however, is that dragonflies and other species of insects that prey on mosquitoes can control the population of these disease-carrying vectors just as effectively, minus the lingering damages caused by POPs. And yet, in lieu of exploring alternatives, POPs continue to be widely used in Southeast Asia to control mosquito populations while killing off the mosquitos’ natural predators.
Nevertheless, all is not yet lost. There is some good news: if we act with haste, we can end these harmful practices and put a stop to the damage being wrought to our ecosystem, that is so often caused or exacerbated by human impacts.
Eyes to the Skies
As Iruvai approaches once again, I look forward to seeing a powderblue October sky dotted densely with dragonflies. Though this city is congested, and sightings are rare, perhaps going out of my way to admire some skimmers will leave me with a newfound appreciation for these familiar insects that we’ve taken for granted, for far too long.
As a child, I stared at these gorgeous insects in awe – the papery wings that made the most curious sound as they flapped in place, the glossy sheen of their large, polished eyes. As an adult, I feel a strong obligation to do what I can to save them, to look forward to their journey, to believe they will keep visiting annually every year, and bring even more friends.
That is what the dragonflies taught me – to look forward to brighter days, sing of the changing of seasons, and always remain hopeful for the future.
Note from Dr Anderson: I have been very fortunate to be able to work with many Maldivian colleagues within the Fisheries Ministry, the Marine Research Centre, and the UNDP during my time in the Maldives. I thank them for the generosity with which they shared their knowledge and for the many contributions made to my research on dragonfly migration.
All too often, current climate discourse rarely offers uplifting takeaways. However, given how close these issues are to the hearts of so many, good news can be found by those who know where to seek it.
Over the last few years, we’ve seen a steady incline in the number of people realizing the value of our ecosystems and the need to protect and preserve the living world. With that, we are witnessing numerous dedicated Maldivians journeying above and beyond to protect these invaluable and irreplaceable resources.
ECO THE WARRIORS:
These efforts are special and worthy of celebration - as they leverage longstanding historical relationships between people and the natural environment and build upon ancestral knowledge. Read on to learn more about a few dynamic, young eco-warriors making a name for themselves by bringing their unique perspective to ongoing conservation work, - whether through working in the interest of keystone species, unique biodiverse habitats adjacent to local communities, or the vast marine ecosystem at large.
FARAH AMJAD
In September 2022, Farah Amjad boarded the Omega Seamaster, a state-of-the-art deep-sea submersible, to descend 1,000 metres into the Maldivian seas. In doing so, she helped kickstart a research mission of a magnitude unprecedented in the country. This research was conducted under joint partnership of the Government of Maldives and UK Marine Research Institute Nekton Maldives. Reflecting on her participation in the mission, Farah said her biggest takeaway was the realization that “there is so much
By Mariyam Malsa
Research Assistant
Nekton Mission Maldives
[more] to explore and analyse in our ocean”.
The aquanaut, currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in International Marine Science, has centred her 8-year-long career around coral reef ecology and conservation science. Having started out in the field with an open water diving certification and volunteering even prior to completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Management, Farah credits her motivation to her passion for the ocean and desire to do something beneficial for it.
Looking to the future, Farah expressed her hope to see local scientists involved in research advancements, being empowered to implement measures that can protect critically endangered species, manage climate change impacts and encourage sustainable tourism. Despite this, she also highlighted the importance of fostering knowledge exchange through international collaboration to provide opportunities for capacity building in marine sciences.
Farah also touched on contextspecific conservation strategies, underscoring her firm belief that the wealth of knowledge that Maldivian researchers possess regarding the
local marine environment, as well as interrelated cultural traditions and challenges, can streamline the implementation of conservation strategies that integrate the ‘Maldivian way of life’ in a way that cannot be easily replicated by their foreign counterparts.
It’s important to recognize that the ocean ecosystem extends far beyond the vibrant coral reefs found in the shallower, more accessible regions. A significant portion of the survey during Farah’s mission successfully drew attention to the deeper waters of the Maldives, which had never
been explored. Although these deeper ocean areas may not appear as visually striking as coral reefs, they play crucial ecological roles, including regulating temperature, food cycles, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration. Raising awareness about the importance of the deep ocean is essential, as it holds significant value in maintaining the health of our planet’s marine systems. While the ways in which these deeper waters contribute to the ecosystem differ from those of coral reefs, their value is undeniable and deserves equal recognition in conservation efforts.
HUSSAIN SHAREEF
Inthizaam Secretary at Kurinbee Youth Movement
Out in Dhaalu Atoll, the Kurinbi Youth Movement is the product of the practical and physical embodiment of environmentally-passionate friends who shared a common desire to serve their local community. The KYM NGO was formed in 2019 to serve as a platform to channel the already existing communal will into the practical implementation of conservation and developmental work.
which can also generate further local tourism.
One of the key initiatives that KYM is currently working on is mangrove conservation under the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme. Hussain expressed that the initiation of the project was fuelled by fears of losing this biodiverse habitat in Kurinbi Island, nestled in Haa Dhaalu Atoll. It is home to rare mangrove species, some of which are known to occur in only for atolls in Maldives, as per the baseline assessment. Work is currently ongoing by the Government to establish a nature park near the area,
As part of their vision to work towards youth development and inspire communal social spirit, the NGO also organizes community building activities such as Eid festivities and sports tournaments in addition to conducting public projects like the establishment of a fitness park, agricultural program and amenities in the harbour areas for fishers to process their daily catch.
Shareef highlighted his belief that “the residents of a community have the greatest obligation and ability to work toward development”, noting that historically major public works in Kurinbee were brought to fruition through efforts by residents. The Inthizaam Secretary further explained generating and maintaining public interest in such efforts would ensure the continuity of crucial projects.
HAMNA HUSSAIN
Co-founder, Community and Outreach Manager at the Miyaru Programme
The tale of the national athlete turned shark guide is an illustrious story that has culminated in the Miyaru Programme. Speaking on her love for sharks, a keystone species and one of the planet’s most ancient creatures, Hamna drew attention to how despite rapid states of decline, very few studies have been conducted on shark populations across the Indian Ocean. She lamented a lack of research on shark population diversity in certain northern and southern regions of the country, asserting that “in order to [properly] protect or love something, you have to understand it first”.
first and only female shark guide in Maldives, Hamna is currently working on the project ‘Fisaari Kanbalun’ with local NGO Women in Fuvahmulah and international NGO Women in Ocean Sciences as part of the effort to bring more women into the field. Under a Bank of Maldives grant and sponsorship from PADI 3 to 5 women will complete their divemaster training while another 5 to 8 will be provided additional instruction in ocean research.
While acknowledging the importance of collaboration to make up for shortages in Maldives’ resources, Hamna highlighted the irreplaceability of local contributions. “Hands-on experience from shark guides is unmatched for anything”.
Referring to the specific importance of women in this regard, Hamna professed that “you don’t know how important female representation in conservation is until you become the first woman in a field”. Presently the
Noting that not many people, especially women, view marine conservation as a viable career path, Hamna expressed her opinion that a diverse range of opportunities were in fact available. She believes that there was a place for everyone in the field. If you are looking to get involved, she assured that anyone with a curiosity or passion for sharks or the ocean at large would be welcomed by her team at the Miyaru Programme.
WHY GEARING THE MALDIVES’ MARKETS AND BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY IS ESSENTIAL FOR FUTURE RESILIENCE
By Mohamed ShahudUNDP Maldives
The Maldives transitioned from a Least Developed Country (LDC) to Middle-Income status in 2011 and soon after, to Upper-Middle-Income Country status. This achievement was driven by an impressive growth rate of 9.87% per annum between 1980 and 2000, following the maturation of its tourism industry, which had begun a decade earlier. Over the next decade, the Maldives climbed in the Human Development rankings, reaching the high human development category and reducing its poverty levels to below 1% by 2019.
Like many Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the Maldives has faced challenges in sustaining its hard-earned development gains. Climate change, natural disasters, and external shocks to its narrowly diversified, tourism-reliant economic
base are constant threats. Between 1990 and 2024, the Maldives experienced four such external shocks, each causing an average GDP contraction of 14.06%, resulting in significant livelihood losses. The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Progress Report 2024 indicates that SIDS have made only 5.9% progress towards the SDGs, lagging behind Landlocked Developing Countries (13.2%) and Least Developed Countries (11.5%), highlighting the unique challenges SIDS face compared to other groups.
Despite these constraints, the Maldives, along with other SIDS, has shown tremendous efforts to protect its economy from shocks through policy actions aimed at orienting its policy frameworks, domestic markets, and business environment towards
sustainable practices as a strategy for building resilience from within. The Maldives has set an ambitious target of meeting 33% of its national energy needs from renewable sources, with a pledge to reach net-zero emissions by 2030, provided it receives the necessary financing support. The country also has designated 79 Marine Protected Areas (MPA), which form large swathes of natural ecosystems that provides economic opportunities as well as environmental resiliency. These efforts have been accompanied by calls for international donors to recognize the significant financing challenges faced by SIDS, particularly concerning the worsening debt situation, with 22 United Nations member SIDS, including the Maldives, expected to have a Debt-to-GDP ratio above 70% until 2025.
The UNDP has played a central role in supporting Government of Maldives agencies in creating a sustainable financing ecosystem through a series of strategic interventions. In 2020, UNDP partnered with the Ministry of Finance to develop a strategic framework identifying a set of “big bet” reforms for unlocking financing from domestic markets for climate finance and improving the alignment of international finance modalities with sustainability practices. This initiative led to the launch of the Maldives Gender-Responsive Climate Financing Strategy in 2023 by the Minister of Finance, which identified 16 action areas under three strategic pillars. The Financing Strategy is expected to enhance the overall
Asia-Pacific Blue Economy Forum
Launching of Maldives ESG Reporting Framework
resilience of financial markets and create the enabling conditions for unlocking domestic finance for more broad-based adaptation and mitigation measures in the country.
The Financing Strategy provided a broader framework for reforms in the Maldives, and UNDP has expanded its support under three key areas outlined in the strategy: aligning public and private financing for SDGs, mainstreaming insurance as a tool for disaster risk financing, and supporting the development of a sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystem.
First, in aligning public financing systems towards sustainability, UNDP has supported the Ministry of Finance in classifying the national budget against the SDGs and is assisting in developing a country-specific typology to classify expenditure related to climate change and disaster risk reduction. These tools will help the Government monitor its expenditure against key SDG targets, identify underfunded SDGs, and link results-based budgeting approaches to deliver its budget. Additionally, UNDP is supporting the Ministry in designing a Sustainable Finance Hub to champion financing strategy reforms and climate finance initiatives across the government.
On the private financing side, UNDP has partnered with the Capital Market Development Authority (CMDA) to develop the Maldives’ first Environmental, Social, and
Governance (ESG) standards for its corporate sector. This framework will enable the private sector to report on key ESG metrics relevant to the Maldives and use the sustainability data for risk control and monitoring purposes. The framework is also expected to prepare domestic firms to access foreign sustainabilitylinked financing in the long run by aligning their business models with internationally accepted sustainability-linked standards.
Moreover, UNDP is supporting the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), the Central Bank, in developing the country’s insurance markets to enhance the ability of firms and individuals to tackle unexpected risks. This partnership includes strengthening the insurance regulatory environment by developing insurance regulations that bolster the current solvency and licensing regimes. It also involves conducting nature-based studies and hazard profiling exercises to explore how new insurance products can help preserve the natural ecosystem, such as coral reefs. These initiatives are expected to increase insurance penetration and position the domestic insurance market as a strong risk-financing alternative, reducing reliance on public finance mechanisms.
UNDP is also supporting the Government in fostering an innovative ecosystem for the MSME sector, given the critical role it can play in driving future growth in the Maldives.
It is estimated that nearly 68% of formal employment in the Maldives comes from public or publiclyowned enterprises, highlighting the potential for private sector development. As part of this effort, UNDP is assisting the Ministry of Economic Development in conducting an entrepreneurial ecosystem study to address factors inhibiting Micro=, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in the country. Blue Economy is the overarching theme for MSME development in the Maldives, given the significant linkages between ocean and blue nature capital in the tourism, fisheries, and agricultural sectors. In May 2024, UNDP hosted its regional Blue Economy Forum in Male, bringing together over 130 blue economy experts, government officials, and civil society actors to discuss how growth aspirations can be balanced with sustainable management of natural resources in the region.
As the Maldives continues to navigate the complex challenges of sustaining its development gains amidst external shocks and climate vulnerabilities, the shift towards a more sustainable market and business environment is not just a strategic choice—it is an essential pathway to resilience. By embedding sustainability into its financial systems, fostering innovation in the private sector, and prioritizing the protection of its unique natural resources, the Maldives is laying the groundwork for a future that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship. These initiatives, supported by UNDP and other international partners, are vital steps towards ensuring that the Maldives can thrive in a rapidly changing world, securing the well-being of its people and preserving its natural heritage for generations to come. The journey ahead may be demanding, but with a strong commitment to sustainability, the Maldives is well-positioned to build a more resilient and prosperous future.
Launching of Maldives Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF)
By Aishath Nayasheen Ahmed & Fathimath LahfaUNDP Accelerator Labs
We live in a time of uncertainty, and the social and environmental challenges we are called upon to address are constantly changing. In such a context, embarking on developmental work and making an impact requires new ways of thinking about problems and solutions and collaborating and working together. The one constant factor that remains is our need to continue learning.
Embedded within UNDP’s country offices, the UNDP Accelerator Labs work in short learning cycles that feed into UNDP’s work. This is accomplished through three key activities –Exploration, Experimentation and Solutions Mapping. The efficacy and consonance of what may initially seem like rather unconventional functions are best explained through an example of our work.
Sensing and Exploration
The Accelerator Lab in Maldives embarked on a learning journey, primarily focused on exploring collective intelligence to tackle the climate challenges.
What is collective intelligence, you may wonder? Simply put, it is a process that combines community knowledge, data and technology –collecting the minds and machines to solve complex problems.
Due to its low-lying topography, climate change is a severe threat to the Maldives. The country’s population, spread across over 180 islands, is already feeling the economic and human impacts and sudden and slow-onset disasters. These effects are expected to worsen and seriously threaten the people’s livelihoods. The challenge is a giant. Therefore, deciding where we need to focus our attention was important.
Testing and Experimentation
Hence, in the discovery phase, the Lab team got out of the building and talked to communities, local councils and decision-makers. A lot of what we discovered was not new. Communities are aware of the effects they face due to climate change and their vulnerability to disaster risk. The attribution of the causes is not so simple, but they believe with conviction that some of the development choices exacerbated existing vulnerabilities. Many feel their voices and narratives are not loud enough to influence action. The sense of powerlessness we sensed from the communities was stark. Thus, it was decided that our collective intelligence value proposition needed to—first and foremost—empower the community. Secondly, many islands lack reliable and accurate data for risk informed local planning.
We planned to experiment with crowd mapping to combine citizengenerated data with existing spatial data. This methodology allows people to use free and readily available digital tools to contribute spatial data based on local knowledge and ground observation.
We wanted to test if community involvement in local disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA) efforts can be enhanced through collective intelligence methods like crowd mapping. We also wanted to test if this detailed map could assist the island council in their local planning and how this local data could be integrated into the existing national data systems.
We set up our experiment on the island of Maafaru in Noonu Atoll.
The name “Maa-faru” directly translates into “massive reef” in the local Dhivehi language and rings true to its namesake. Thus, from an ecological, social, and economic standpoint, this island ticks all the boxes of an interesting case study. It presents a compelling blend of the urban and rural – a composition that is becoming increasingly common across the Maldives.
To test these learning questions, we teamed up with a group of volunteers from the island. After delivering a brief training, the entire island was captured on an accessible street view imaging application. Participants mapped the island’s building footprint, road network, and critical infrastructure on OpenStreetMap using existing aerial imagery, the new street-level imagery and ground observation. While some worked on smartphones and laptops, digitally drawing lines and polygons, others pinned locations on paper maps. Using a mix of digital and analogue activities helped get the most out of all groups. The real intelligence
accrued here was the participants’ innate knowledge of their island and its neighbourhoods, demonstrated as they confidently identified various structures, points of interest and vulnerable buildings on the maps.
The Accelerator Lab quickly processed the information and created a GISbased island map within just one day. Volunteers then validated the information and identified areas susceptible to flooding, erosion, and vulnerable infrastructure. Two days later, a disaster management and risk reduction plan were formulated in a co-creation workshop based on this map, together with the council and participant group.
Growing from Lessons Learned
Crowd mapping exercise allowed us to quickly generate a more detailed, geographically accurate base map of the island. So, we can confidently affirm (yes!) that citizen-generated data can help bridge the data gap in local islands. The base map helped the council create richer disaster management and climate adaptation plans.
This brings us back to the question of whether crowd mapping motivated the community to contribute to action on DRR. Our answer is, despite the humble size of the mapping crowd, we received participation from men and women, from the old and young alike, who all brought in diverse inputs. Throughout the process, the group contributed their time and input, bringing invaluable perspectives on how to keep people engaged and motivated.
We had people such as Leela and Aisha from the Women’s Development Committee, who volunteered because they had experienced historical disasters on the island in the past three decades. They hoped that
formulating a disaster management plan would provide a comforting sense of preparedness to them and the community. We also had local youth like Alla and Naail joining us because they saw crowd mapping as an opportunity to learn new skills and tools, as a means to effect change. Furthermore, young girls like Masha and Aisha enjoyed learning to use the new mapping applications, as it fosters their sense of place and inspiring them to become more civic minded.
Some recognize the importance of addressing the issues and the need for action, while others see the benefits of the methods and tools and, during the process, learn more about the problems and their importance. From our perspective, both forms of awareness and interest are definite wins.
Those who chose not to partake also offer us valuable ideas. We must tailor our messages to reach a larger audience and permeate different groups. We must consider ways to adjust the timing and duration of our engagement to be more flexible by factoring in the practical life constraints that people face.
Experimentation and learning are central to what we do and how we do
Most importantly, data is only as good as what it lets us do. We need to acknowledge a gap where the doers and decision-makers do not always harvest the full value of data.
In our example, some things worked. Some things did not. In both cases we definitely learned.
This is why, beyond sharing the data with the community for local action, we need to find ways to link this data with national data systems on climate change and disaster risk reduction.
Continuous exploration and experimentation on sustainable development challenges is a crucial function within UNDP’s Country Offices. While this may be more explicit in the Accelerator Lab mandate, this is the mindset and principle all of UNDP Maldives teams operate under.
We constantly try new ways of working, engage with new partners, explore the possibilities of new service lines and experiment with what might work. While we will embark on many such learning journeys, we do not assume we can nor attempt to do it alone. We remain open to allies who share the same spirit of curiosity and learning to join us in this journey.
Pic : Mohamed Sarim Abdullah/UNDP Maldives
By Nafaahath Ibrahim
A TALE OF INNATE MALDIVIAN - NESS
Moved by a tranquillity known only to those who call these tropics home, Haseebath Ali starts her day at the break of dawn along answering the call of morning prayer, at her home on Raa Atoll’s Dhuvaafaru Island, itself nestled in the central region of the Maldivian archipelago. Once her faith is sated, hours of Quran recital and various supplications later, her day of work begins.
Energetic and jovial at 75 years young, Haseebath describes herself as someone who “needs very little sleep”,
Chuckling, she admitted that while hard to believe unless witnessed firsthand, with the exception of prayer times, it would be nothing short of a miracle to see her sitting idle, even at this hour. “Throughout the day people come with various ailments. My first priority is that, and so whatever task I was doing gets set aside for it.”
“As I worked in the kitchen, my late husband would sit at the shop past noon. But he’d still call for me in between as I am more adept at using the various systems.”
Taking care of a home, a shop, and attending anyone who needs her medical expertise, while also somehow finding time to do an array of other tasks is certainly no small feat. Yet against all odds, Haseebath succeeds at her catalogue of duties, and she does so very elegantly.
Laughing out loud, she cheekily commented that, “the younger kids are always joking about how I am so active at my age, saying that they would never be able to keep up with me.”
Truly, she is the epitome of being the quintessential Maldivian woman.
Surviving tsunamis, building community and living joyfully
Zestful working woman
One thing about Haseebath, however, she is not so easily condensed into a singular facet. Rather, she is a force of nature, having spent a lifetime in service to her community, and as she confidently asserts, “I will continue to work till the very end, God willing”.
It is hard to put her in a box and declare Haseebath as an aficionado of one particular subject, or even two, because she appears to have done a little bit of everything—and she’s well known to be a dab hand at several.
During her time at Raa Atoll’s Kandholhudhoo, the island where she is originally from, her family owned
a fishing vessel that contributed to much of their income. Independently though, Haseebath has opened a general store in all three islands where spent different stages of her life. Today, the majority of her earning is generated through her shop in Dhuvaafaru, and as rent generated from properties she now owns, “And there’s always the elderly allowance” she adds, grinning widely. “I do quite well for a woman my age, praise be to God, if I do say so myself”.
What consumes most of her days now is philanthropic work. Every so often, she makes an array of local delights, selling these titbits in her shops or simply giving away to loved ones. Other times, using ancient techniques passed down in her family, she prepares traditional local medicine completely free of charge for anyone in need. She is also incredibly passionate about teaching others, and whenever the opportunity arises,
she is only too happy to share her knowledge on to newer generations.
As a woman with a strong Islamic core, she spends a great deal of her time in prayer and spiritual discussion. In fact, many of her acquaintances, she traces back to meeting at the mosque. One such memorable encounter was with a lady from Thinadhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, to whom she ended up passing on all her medicinal knowledge. She taught all her massage techniques, and various other skills she had gained in the field. She even provided copies of handwritten books that she had compiled herself.
“She [the Thinadhoo lady] is practicing today, earning an income, and healing people in the process”, said Haseebath, brimming with pride.
Interestingly, of all her ventures, the brief period she spent in the political arena was not among the favourites. Despite being elected to the council, which showed her how much the community loved her, she found it to be a tricky path to navigate.
Recalling the time causes creases in her forehead to scrunch together, forming deep lines of worry, and a tone of concern flooded her voice. She expressed concern that some young people did not value the importance of showing up for their roles, being punctual and doing their tasks diligently. In her eyes, these are essential qualities that the upcoming generations would do well to learn, appreciate, and put into practice.
“I may not be tech-savvy enough to blaze a typing trail on a keyboard, but I will always be on time and do my work with integrity.”
Political life was an experience onto itself, and Haseebath believes it enriched her life, just like any other challenges that came her way. Career-wise, she happily reports that at this point in her life, she no longer works out of need, but rather, as a means to fund all her philanthropic endeavours, which alone speaks volumes about who she is.
Her Indomitable Spirit
However, no life passes by untried, and Haseebath’s first life changing calamity would be the tsunami that followed the Indian Ocean earthquake in 2004, which devastated coasts of several countries across South and Southeast Asia. Sadly, this would include Haseebath’s home in Kandholhudhoo, Raa Atoll.
Like most Maldivians, the happy home she built with her husband stood only a few metres from the shore and what began as a normal day, ended in tragedy.
“My husband, along with two other carpenters were busy fixing up a Dhoni before the children visited for the holidays. Meanwhile, I was bustling around in the kitchen, preparing breakfast for the men at work.”
Just as she was heading in for the noon prayers, a wave swept in out of nowhere. “My husband’s instincts immediately went on high alert.”
“Haseebath, this is an unusual kind of wave. This is not good,” she recalled him saying immediately.
Unfortunately, being an island with a strong fishing community, all the strong and hearty men of the island were at sea. Only a few were in the village, most of whom were ailing. Together, they were desperately
that lay over a rainwater tank, cradling her neighbour’s four-monthold baby as she prayed for everyone’s safety.
“God’s mercy is boundless. Despite our island being relatively smaller than some of the other impacted islands, thanks to His grace, we emerged with better odds”, she said, speaking of the way some islanders experienced waves crashing in from all directions. Nevertheless, destruction and devastation surrounded her home, too.
These memories still wrench her heart, her eyes taking on a tell-tale sheen as she described seeing Quran volumes washed out of the mosques, parents desperately looking for nappies for their young children and people left with nothing but the damp clothes on their back.
of the community like Haseebath and her husband helped support the healing process, wounds festered for a time. Some immediately left to go stay at shelters in adjacent islands, but a handful of families stayed back, sleeping at the mosque by nightfall.
“One night soon after, while asleep in the mosque, the bang caused by a door slamming in the wind caused me to go into a deep shock. There was so much unprocessed trauma.”
And so, when her chance came along, she moved with her family to Alifushi, where they lived for four years before finally moving and settling down in Dhuvaafaru.
One night soon after, while asleep in the mosque, the bang caused by a door slamming in the wind caused me to go into a deep shock. There was so much unprocessed trauma.
trying to get the women, children, elderly and the sick out of the flooded houses.
She bore witness to this whole scene unfold, sitting atop the slab of cement
Haseebath and her husband responded to the pain being felt around them by opening their shop for all and any to come grab whatever they needed. For the couple, in the face of such tragedy and heartbreak, it was the only thing they could do that made sense.
Voice shaking, Haseebath said, “everyone was just trying to survive”.
While help arrived soon, and pillars
The Community S-Hero
It is clear, through all the chapters of her life, family and community has been and continues to be deeply rooted in Haseebath. It is an undeniable part of the fabric that is this amazing woman, woven into her character, and seen across her lifestyle.
The profound connection Haseebath feels with her community is perhaps best demonstrated by the simple but telling design aspect that she insisted on when her new home was being built in Dhuvaafaru Island.
“My sole request to the children was to build the surrounding walls no higher than three feet—at least for as long as I live.”
An enormous smile spreading across her face, she explained that many offices and the biggest school on the island were near her home. Although everyone is friendly, she believes that most people would hesitate to come through the big doors and high walls.
The sweet consequence of Haseebath’s architectural choice is seen every day.
Parents would peer over her wall, exchanging pleasantries with her as they passed by, some even coming in for a brief sojourn and the particularly kind ones taking over her tasks.
Survivor of Heartbreak
My sole request to the children was to build the surrounding walls no higher than three feet—at least for as long as I live.
While her story proves over and over that Haseebath is no stranger to tragedy nor heartache, the shift in her very being when she spoke of her husband’s passing was achingly different and hinted at an unfathomable pain.
The emotion in her expression, in the tone of her voice and the choice of words with which she described their life was a testament to the love and dedication shared between two people for decades.
From getting married, building a life and bringing their first child into the world, to every child and milestone that followed, traveling together, rebuilding their home and sharing a beautiful life till death did them part.
Haseebath took comfort in having been able to muster the strength to perform the act of covering his
face, the Islamic practice of takfeen (shrouding the dead), by herself. Their children echoed the sentiment, reassuring her that by doing so, their mother had bade her husband an intimate goodbye in a way that honoured him and what had been a blessed union.
“It has been three months. Because we were almost never apart and did everything together, his passing has caused me great heartache.”
“For this reason, my children will not allow me to return to the island. When I talk about leaving, they insist that I take at least one of them with me so that I would not feel alone.”
Eyes glistening with tears, and love lifting the timbre of the voice, she declared she has been immensely blessed with children who love and care for her so very deeply.
A Joyful, Inspiring Soul
It takes a different kind of resilience to remain positive in the face of heartbreak, one must learn to find happiness, if not satisfaction, in different ways. And that is just how Haseebath choses to look at her life and the struggles that she has faced.
Taking a devastating natural calamity that washed away the life she knew and loved and forced her out from the first home she ever knew, she collected the bits that remained, and pieced together a new life, on new land.
Even after the loss of her companion meant for a lifetime, she finds gratitude in that he was spared years of suffering from a wasting illness, and instead, passed peacefully surrounded by the ones he loved most.
Throughout it all, Haseebath’s faith remains unshakeable. She believes that “God’s plan is indeed the best” and never wavers in her commitment to working hard. Therein lies a lesson for anyone, especially the young and carefree!
Faith, community, family, kindness, and perseverance—these traditional values form the bedrock, or rather, coralline foundation upon which our Maldivian society was once built. While the degree to which such principles are held may vary in modern times, Haseebath remains a true embodiment of these values, with her hardworking nature, resilience in the face of tragedy, and strong faith serving as living remnants of what it means to be truly Maldivian.
WHISPERS OF THE SEA
One of those early mornings, I woke up for no particular reason and found myself walking from my apartment down to the shoreline. I spot a wooden bench not far from the water and sit, my gaze fixed on its endless movement. Above, a crescent moon and a few lingering stars shine faintly in the dark sky. They won’t last long, but for now, they keep me company, holding with me the stories of 45 years of yesterdays and todays. I am here, in this moment. Nothing lies in front of me but the waves. They don’t break on the beach but a little farther out, where they tumble over the remnants of a tired coral reef.
Lights on the horizon turn red, and as someone nearby coughs and takes a seat, a crow greets the last glow of the moon, which has slipped away, leaving a few loyal stars that hold on a little longer. The colors of the sea blend seamlessly into the horizon, and if not for the faint, gray-clad shapes of clouds, I wouldn’t know where to place the ocean as a new day begins.
I wade into the water, gently caressing it with my fingers, the light now reflecting more brightly. To be honest, I’m also putting a little distance between myself and the first glances of the waking city. The water is cool but not too cold, and as I sit, like the night above me, I hold onto the lingering warmth of forgotten dreams, keeping them close to my chest a while longer. And I listen.
What are you trying to tell me, sea? How long have you been speaking to us? We don’t understand, yet you continue, as if hoping we might someday. I close my eyes to feel you more deeply on my skin, wishing perhaps you’d lull me back to yesterday. A slightly stronger slap from one of your waves reminds me that yesterday isn’t yours to give. As I place a hand to steady myself, you unveil a new blue and orange sky on the horizon. I look at you, now submerged up to my chin, and since I don’t understand your language, I try to find my own words.
By Enrico Gaveglia UNDP Resident Representative in the Maldives
I don’t quite know what to say to you, hoping for a sign, maybe even a shift in your rhythm this morning. The best I can offer is a prayer, which might sound more like a lament. I repeat it—five, ten times. I start to breathe with you, finding resonance in your melody, breathing into you. Two tears slip out unnoticed, perhaps to become a little more like you, or maybe, just for a moment, to forget myself. How many of us, near and far, are here with you?
The sun surprises me on the horizon, rising fiery and a little faster than I’d like. It feels as though it’s urging me not to ask too many questions, to simply stay, accept calmly, and await the day’s unfolding liturgy. In this moment with you, there’s no language, no understanding. Yet, despite our differences, you embrace me, drawing me into oneness as I submerge fully. I drift gently in your underwater currents, feeling a serene bliss, almost as if I could hold this moment
without needing to breathe. But then, a shiver of fear anchors me back to the sand, propelling me to the surface as I realize I cannot disappear into the depths of your world.
A little girl in bright colors comes down to pick up a shell nearby, glances at me, and runs back to her mother. The sun, now pressing warmer on my forehead, urges me to retreat, and the moon I’d hoped would guide me back has disappeared along with yesterday. I stand, turning my back to you, humbled that you allowed me this moment. I carry a trace of your wetness with me, as you hold a piece of mine. I leave in silence, knowing that somewhere, sometime, someone else may come to you, while you go on speaking.
