Maldives Government Welcomes UN Rapporteur's Findings to Enhance National Healthcare System

The Maldives government has formally welcomed the preliminary observations of Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to health, following her official mission to the archipelago from April 26 to May 7. During the visit, the government facilitated a comprehensive series of consultations between the Special Rapporteur and key stakeholders across the executive, the judiciary, and the Majlis (the Maldivian Parliament). To provide a ground-level perspective of the nation's medical landscape, Dr. Mofokeng visited healthcare facilities in the capital city of Malé, as well as regional hubs in Dhaalu Atoll and Addu City. In its official statement, the government highlighted that the Special Rapporteur recognized significant strides made by the Maldives. Specifically, the UN expert noted progress in the implementation of a universal healthcare system, the success of national vaccination programmes, and ongoing efforts to improve the accessibility of healthcare delivery across the dispersed atolls. The government expressed confidence that the Rapporteur’s conclusions will serve as a catalyst for securing international technical and financial assistance. This support is viewed as essential for strengthening national healthcare commitments and addressing the specific gaps identified during the mission. Reiterating its pledge to ensure the right to health for every citizen, the administration emphasized its commitment to equity and accessibility. The government noted that it will prioritize strengthening primary healthcare and preventive services to reduce the burden on tertiary facilities. Moving forward, the government stated it will carefully review the Rapporteur's recommendations to further advance the right to health nationwide. Dr. Mofokeng's visit marks a significant diplomatic milestone as the first UN Special Procedures mandate holder to visit the Maldives in 2026, following a standing invitation reiterated by the government in February 2024.