The Maldives is taking part in the 60th regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC), which opened on Monday in Geneva, Switzerland. The month-long session, running from 8 September to 8 October, gathers representatives from 47 member states to deliberate on pressing human rights challenges and strengthen international cooperation.
The meeting was inaugurated with a global human rights briefing by Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, who outlined key concerns and priorities facing the international community.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Maldives reaffirmed its commitment to contributing actively to the council’s work. The Maldivian delegation will deliver interventions under multiple agenda items, co-sponsor initiatives, and play a direct role in drafting resolutions.
Among its most notable contributions, the Maldives will table a new resolution on the impact of sea-level rise on the enjoyment of human rights. Officials say the initiative reflects the country’s position as one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations and underscores the existential threat faced by low-lying island states.
The Maldives will also present the triennial resolution on prevention, focusing on the role of early action in promoting and safeguarding human rights.
Speaking on behalf of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the Maldives will deliver a joint statement under the agenda item on technical assistance and capacity-building, emphasising the distinct vulnerabilities of island nations and the need for tailored international support.
As a member of both the Non-Aligned Movement and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the Maldives will also join collective calls addressing growing global human rights violations. In its national capacity, the country will draw attention to urgent humanitarian issues, particularly the crisis in Palestine, and will take part in an interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Myanmar.
The Maldivian delegation is led by Dr Salma Rasheed, Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the UN Office in Geneva. In her capacity as Vice President of the Human Rights Council representing the Asia-Pacific Group, Dr Rasheed will preside over several meetings during the session.
The Human Rights Council, an intergovernmental body within the UN system, is mandated to promote and protect human rights worldwide, address violations, and recommend corrective measures. The Maldives is currently serving its 2023–2025 term as a council member and has consistently used its platform to amplify climate concerns, humanitarian issues, and the rights of vulnerable communities.
