Maldives Police Conduct Assessment to Expand Women's Role in Counter-Terrorism

Maldives Police Service has completed an assessment aimed at expanding the role of women in counter-terrorism efforts, the institution announced today. The assessment was carried out by a special team from the police service with the assistance of the European Union and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) under the 'EU-UN Global Terrorism Threats Facility (UNOCT)'. The study, conducted from July to October, focused on enhancing opportunities and career progression for female officers in counter-terrorism and preventing violent extremism, according to police. The findings were validated during a workshop where the UNOCT team presented the assessment and the police team held a 30-minute question and answer session. The assessment involved a team of 13 police personnel, supported by four UNOCT experts. Data was collected through an organizational scan, interviews with relevant parties, focus group discussions, and a confidential survey. Police said the findings highlighted strong executive support for expanding women's roles, welfare benefits, maternity leave with pay, and established frameworks for empowering women within the institution. Assistant Commissioner of Police Ahmed Abdhul Rahman praised the assessment team's hard work and assured that the report's recommendations would be implemented sustainably. He noted the study would help reorganize and strengthen existing service structures. During the event, the UNOCT presented certificates to the assessment team. Discussions were held on ways to provide further assistance to police in implementing the report's recommendations over the next year to strengthen women's role in counter-terrorism. Commissioner of Police Ahmed Muhammad presented a commemorative letter, acknowledging the support and assistance provided by the UNOCT team.