President Muizzu Unveils Institutional Reforms to Combat Human Trafficking in Maldives

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has detailed a series of operational and institutional reforms designed to strengthen the Maldives' response to human trafficking, emphasizing that the protection of human dignity is non-negotiable. Speaking on the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the President urged law enforcement, employers, and civil society to remain vigilant against the exploitation of the nation's economic growth and digital advancements. Central to the administration's strategy is the fight against the evolving nature of criminal networks. Highlighting this year's theme, "Trapped Behind the Scam," President Muizzu warned that technology is increasingly being misused to lure vulnerable individuals into large-scale scam operations and forced criminal activity, a trend that poses a significant challenge across the region. To address these threats, the President pointed to 'Operation Kurangi' as a pivotal step in securing the borders and workforce. This operation has significantly reduced the number of unverified work permits and expanded biometric coverage for foreign workers, closing gaps that traffickers often exploit. These operational efforts are supported by deep institutional shifts under the Human Trafficking Prevention Act. For the first time, the Maldives has developed a National Action Plan on Human Trafficking and submitted a statutory annual report to the Majlis (the Maldivian Parliament). Additionally, the government has reconstituted the National Anti-Human Trafficking Coordination Committee to streamline policymaking. To provide a direct lifeline for those at risk, the administration established the Migrant Workers Resource Centre and the Migrant Connect Portal. These tools are designed to help workers facing abuse seek assistance and enable authorities to identify exploitation more efficiently. Looking toward the future, the President outlined the Maldives Anti-Human Trafficking Strategic Plan 2026–2029. This roadmap focuses on improving victim identification, strengthening the prosecution of offenders, and deepening cooperation with international partners. While acknowledging that significant hurdles remain, President Muizzu called for a unified national effort to ensure that development in the Maldives is always accompanied by justice and respect for fundamental human rights.