Maldives’ current situation may have an impact on the country’s development- UN

The United Nations office in Maldives has expressed concern regarding the current situation in the country which the UN says may have an impact on the country’s development. 

In a press release of issued yesterday UN Maldives stated that the UN has spoken repeatedly in public and in private over the course of several years and three governments on democracy, development, and human rights.

“Most recently, the Secretary-General spoke of the need for political dialogue, national reconciliation, and respect for the constitution.  He called on all parties to exercise maximum cooperation and restraint (Statement 30.08.12).  The High Commissioner for Human Rights and Special Rapporteurs have engaged robustly and provided considerable support over the years on human rights, which has been further strengthened by the recent deployment of a human rights adviser,” the press release stated.

UN Maldives noted that organisation has a long history of friendship and partnership with the Maldives, and has contributed to some of the remarkable achievements the country has made. 

The UN team in Maldives stated that the team led by the Resident Coordinator, works as part of the larger UN strategy focusing on development, human rights and support to democracy.

“Our primary and overriding interest is to work for the development of the country and the betterment of the lives of its people.   We do this on the basis of a programme of cooperation signed with the Government in the interest of the people of the Maldives.  We do our work with national institutions in government and civil society, the private sector, and directly with communities. At the same time, we maintain strict impartiality toward political parties.  The UN team has been deeply engaged in building national capacity, and in urging and assisting Maldivians to take the lead in overcoming deep rooted national challenges.  We will continue to provide support and advocate vigorously a renewed focus for development that builds on the gains of the past, and focuses on the needs of the country.”