The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) held the first HRCM-CSO Partnership Forum in 2025, as part of its ongoing initiative to strengthen ties with civil society organizations (CSOs) and foster collaborative efforts on human rights issues. The program was launched in December 2023 with the aim of establishing a robust system for consultation and joint action with CSOs across the Maldives.

The forum was attended by 58 participants representing 29 civil society organizations. Secretary General Aminath Naushan Abdul Muhaimin opened the event, highlighting the vital role of CSOs and expressing hope that the forum would reinforce collaboration between HRCM and civil society. She also acknowledged the support and cooperation of CSOs in implementing the Commission’s initiatives.

At the closing ceremony, HRCM President Mariyam Muna underscored the role of civil society organizations as Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), advocating for and protecting human rights across sectors despite the challenges they face. She emphasized the importance of strong relationships with government institutions, civil society, and international partners to overcome these challenges. President Muna also highlighted the Commission’s constitutional mandate to build a democratic society that respects human rights and expressed gratitude for the financial and technical support provided by CSOs and international partners. She noted that the forum’s development of an action plan for 2025 would facilitate the implementation of collaborative initiatives this year.

British High Commissioner Nick Low, speaking at the closing, emphasized that civil society organizations are frontline responders to community issues and disasters, highlighting the significance of their contributions. UNDP Resident Representative Enrico Gaveglia described support to civil society as support for human rights defense and underlined the importance of their work.

The forum, supported by UNDP and the British Government, also provided a platform for CSOs to share their areas of expertise and identify gaps requiring further support. By the conclusion of the event, key activities and implementation steps for 2025 had been agreed upon through participant consultations, ensuring stronger collaboration between HRCM and civil society organizations