The Government of Maldives has entered into a new partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) to implement the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) for the period 2025–2031 — a long-term national framework designed to enhance labour rights, improve workplace standards, and promote safer, fairer employment conditions across the country.
The agreement, formalised through a memorandum of understanding signed in Malé, sets out shared priorities between the Government, employer groups, and worker representatives. The DWCP aligns with the Maldives’ broader development goals and supports commitments under the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
According to the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, the initiative will help reinforce national labour governance structures, ensure international labour standards are effectively reflected in domestic legislation, and contribute to building a more equitable labour market.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister of Labour Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed said the programme represents a strategic investment in the country’s future workforce. He emphasised that the DWCP will support the Maldives in preparing for new labour market realities, strengthening worker protections while also creating a more enabling environment for employers.
“This framework brings together all essential partners to modernise our labour system, enhance protections, and equip our workforce for emerging challenges,” the Minister said.
The memorandum unites key actors in the labour sector—including worker associations, employer organisations, the Labour Ministry, and the ILO—to collaborate on reforms over the next seven years.
Officials described the agreement as a significant milestone in the Maldives’ efforts to advance decent work nationwide. Under the new DWCP, priority areas include expanding the ratification of international labour conventions, strengthening social dialogue between stakeholders, and improving institutional capacity to ensure labour reforms are properly implemented and sustained.
