Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla MP, Speaker of the People’s Majlis of the Maldives, delivered a speech today at the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Addressing the theme of this year’s IPU Assembly, “Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice,” the Hon. Speaker underscored the role of parliaments in improving people’s lives through legislation, oversight, and political will. He outlined key laws passed by the People’s Majlis to promote social justice, including the Child Rights Protection Act, Gender Equality Act, Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, and Social Health Insurance Act. The Speaker also emphasized that these laws are being implemented effectively through active oversight by parliamentary committees.
During his speech, the Speaker reaffirmed the Maldives’ efforts to reduce poverty and ensure equitable access to essential services, citing President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s focus on strengthening the Zakat system and modernizing welfare distribution.
Hon. Speaker also emphasized the need for economic empowerment through support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly for youth and women, highlighting the ongoing grants, loans, and training programs provided for entrepreneurs.
Recognizing the challenges and opportunities of digital technology, the Hon. Speaker underscored the national investments in ICT, digital inclusion, and e-governance to ensure no one is left behind in the digital era.
In a strong call for climate justice, he described climate change as an existential threat to the Maldives and urged IPU members to protect vulnerable nations and commit to sustainability.
The Hon. Speaker concluded his address by calling for unity, dialogue, and renewed political will, and urging fellow parliamentarians to ensure that justice, equity, and dignity remain at the heart of global policymaking. He also expressed the Maldives’ concern about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the suffering of the civilians and urged swift international action to end the violence and uphold justice.