The government has officially launched the National Forum for Civil Society, an initiative designed to empower community-based organisations and enhance their role in the country’s development.
The forum, organised by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, was inaugurated by Minister Ibrahim Waheed. The two-day programme brings together civil society representatives to identify challenges, explore solutions to social issues, and strengthen collaboration among organisations nationwide.
Speaking at the opening, Minister Waheed underscored that many civil society organisations in the Maldives are led by philanthropists working with limited resources. He stressed the need for a sustainable model that provides financial backing, recognition, and opportunities to implement projects.
“Civil society plays a vital role in driving national dialogue and development,” he said. “By ensuring that these organisations have access to funding and capacity-building opportunities, we can create stronger, more resilient institutions.”
The minister also emphasised that forums of this kind would expand organisational reach, strengthen their capacity, and enable groups to contribute more effectively to decision-making processes.
A total of 69 civil society organisations, 30 Women’s Development Committees, and six Atoll Councils are participating in the forum. Participants are expected to share experiences, present recommendations, and collaborate on strategies to make their work more sustainable and impactful.
The forum also fulfils one of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s key manifesto pledges — to give civil society a greater role in governance and national development. By institutionalising their involvement, the government hopes to foster a more inclusive, collaborative approach to addressing community concerns and driving progress.
