The government of the Maldives has approved the Maldives Gender Equality Model (MGEM) to determine the progress of the work to achieve the milestones set by the Gender Equality Action Plan. The decision was made during the first meeting of the High-Level Steering Committee tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Gender Equality Action Plan.
During the meeting, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih led the discussions as Chairman of the High-Level Steering Committee. The members acknowledged the work done after the Gender Equality Action Plan was approved in February, including holding information sessions for various institutions to familiarise them with the plan.
Additionally, the committee members decided to give out certificates to institutions for the successful implementation of the action plan. They also approved the MGEM in order to determine the progress of the work to achieve the milestones set by the action plan and speed up implementation. The model will be used to determine the level of gender parity achieved and introduce a gender equality index. The model will also be used to hold institutions accountable for implementing policies related to gender equality and assign an MGEM advocate for each institution.
Furthermore, the committee approved next year’s plan to implement the Gender Equality Action Plan. The members stated that work has been assigned to over 84 institutions.
The High-Level Steering Committee is tasked with overall oversight, guidance, and direction, and ensure implementation of the Gender Equality Policy drawn up under the Gender Equality Act under the guidance of President Solih. The policy intends to ensure gender equality by increasing women's ability to participate equally in all state and national-level engagements and promoting the economic empowerment of women. It will also ensure equality between men and women in leadership, economic activities, justice, and social well-being.