First Lady Urges More Women in Frontline Policing and Investigations

First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has called for a strategic increase in the number of female officers deployed to frontline police operations and criminal investigations, challenging the long-standing perception that policing is a male-dominated profession. Speaking at the inauguration of the Maldives Women in Policing Committee for the 2026–2028 term, the First Lady emphasized that ensuring women's full participation is not merely about gender balance, but about improving the quality of justice. She noted that a more inclusive police force fosters greater public trust and cooperation, particularly when handling sensitive matters such as domestic violence and sexual assault. Addressing the internal structure of the police service, the First Lady highlighted a critical need for capacity building. She urged the service to move beyond limiting women to administrative roles, encouraging them instead to pursue technical, investigative, and frontline duties. To support this transition, she called for the establishment of stronger mentoring systems and a significant increase in female representation within policy-making committees. While acknowledging that Maldivian women have achieved high participation rates in sectors like healthcare and education, the First Lady pointed out that the security sector continues to lag behind. She argued that closing this gap is essential for the broader goals of national stability. Concluding her remarks, the First Lady linked the professionalism of the police service to the country's overall trajectory. She stated that economic and social progress is fundamentally dependent on peace and security, framing the maintenance of the rule of law as a vital national service. By diversifying and strengthening the police force, she asserted that the Maldives can better secure a safe and prosperous future for the coming generations.