Maldives Signs Bogota Call to Action to Eradicate Violence Against Children

The Maldives has formally signed the “Bogota Call to Action” Declaration, committing to an intensified global effort to eliminate all forms of violence against children. The declaration originated from the First Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, held in Bogota, Colombia, in November 2024. By joining this international agreement, the Maldives aims to strengthen its child-rights protection systems and improve the efficiency of responses to reports of abuse. The move signals a shift toward more robust national and international cooperation to ensure the safety of the youngest citizens. Minister of Health, Family and Welfare, Geela Ali, stated that signing the declaration represents significant progress in the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard children’s rights. She emphasized that the commitment aligns with the Maldives’ own National Action Plan on Preventing and Responding to Violence Against Children, which was adopted earlier this year. UNICEF Representative to the Maldives, Dr. Edward Addai, lauded the country's progress, noting that the Maldives has achieved notable success in child protection. Dr. Addai highlighted that the Bogota Call to Action focuses on critical areas such as evidence-based measures, legal and policy reforms, and digital safety—all of which complement existing Maldivian initiatives. The declaration also emphasizes the importance of institutional collaboration and meaningful child participation, ensuring that children have a voice in the policies that affect their well-being. The Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare affirmed its dedication to working with both local and international partners. The government intends to translate these high-level commitments into sustainable, lasting improvements that provide a secure environment for every child across the archipelago.