UN adopts historic resolution on sea-level rise, with Maldives playing a leading role

The United Nations General Assembly has adopted by consensus a resolution on sea-level rise, urging action to protect small island nations and coastal states from the dangers they face and to preserve their legal sovereignty. This is the first time the UN has adopted such a comprehensive resolution at the international level on the issue of sea-level rise. The resolution was passed on the 24th of last month. KEY POINTS OF THE RESOLUTION Protecting independence and sovereignty: Even if a country loses part of its land due to sea-level rise, international law will ensure that the country's independence, its sovereignty and its UN membership will endure. Security of maritime boundaries: Ensuring that the economic exclusion zones and maritime boundaries defined under UN maritime law will remain unchanged even as changes occur to land. Increasing financial assistance: A call to increase the financial assistance needed by developing small island nations to cope with environmental dangers. THE MALDIVES' ROLE AND ADVOCACY The Maldives is one of the countries at the forefront of advocacy on climate change and sea-level rise on the international stage. Thirty-seven years ago, in 1989, the "Malé Declaration" drawn up at the meeting of small island states held in Malé marked the beginning of this effort. Speaking at the UN General Assembly meeting held last month, Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef said the solution to escaping the dangers of sea-level rise is "not retreat," but rather ensuring safety and security with resilience. The Vice President also called for expediting the financial assistance needed by small island nations and for ensuring the full rights of small countries under international law.