President Muizzu to Establish Elected Youth Parliament to Strengthen Maldivian Democracy

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced the establishment of an elected Youth Parliament, marking a significant shift in the government's strategy to integrate young people and women into the nation's political fabric. Speaking during the official Independence Day ceremony, the President emphasized that increasing the participation of these demographics is essential for the long-term stability and strength of Maldivian democracy. The proposed Youth Parliament will consist of representatives elected from every constituency across the Maldives. This initiative aims to provide a formal platform for young citizens to engage with national governance and policy-making processes. Beyond the creation of a separate youth body, President Muizzu revealed plans to introduce constitutional amendments and legislative changes to mandate a specific percentage of seats in the People's Majlis (the Maldivian Parliament) for women and youth. According to the President, these reforms are driven by the fact that women and young people comprise more than two-thirds of the population. He argued that providing them with a permanent role in decision-making is not only a matter of fairness but a necessity for safeguarding the nation's independence for future generations. These proposals are expected to be submitted to the Parliament in the coming days. Parallel to political reform, the President highlighted economic empowerment as a cornerstone of his administration's policy. He cited the recent introduction of a microloan scheme that has already benefited over 5,600 young entrepreneurs, alongside ongoing efforts to expand the creative economy. President Muizzu also lauded the National Service programme as a critical tool for youth development. He described the initiative as vital for nurturing patriotic, skilled, and innovative citizens who are committed to serving the country. By combining political representation with economic support and civic duty, the government aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem of empowerment for the Maldives' next generation of leaders.