The President of the Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) Fuwad Thaufeeq has stated that Maldives is making progress in its democratic journey. He made the remarks during the public forum held by political science students of the Maldives National University (MNU) on the occasion of the International Democracy Day.
Speaking at the event, Fuwad reflected on the historical trajectory of democracy, noting its introduction approximately 2,500 years ago. He observed that while many countries have embraced democratic systems over the centuries, the continuity of democracy has often been inconsistent. Despite these historical challenges, Fuwad praised the Maldives for its advancements in democratic governance in recent times.
Highlighting the nation's political evolution, Fuwad traced the Maldives’ journey from its early republican phase to a period of monarchy, and finally to its current democratic status. He underscored the significance of the transition to the Second Republic and the landmark adoption of the new Constitution in 2008, which guaranteed numerous rights and freedoms for Maldivian citizens.
The public forum at MNU featured a vibrant discussion among political science students, who engaged in an exploration of democratic principles and their application in the Maldives. The students presented a variety of posters detailing the history of democracy and key aspects of International Democracy Day, enhancing the educational experience of the event.
International Democracy Day is celebrated annually on September 15. This year's theme for the International Day of Democracy is 'Artificial Intelligence as a tool for good governance', with a focus on ensuring effective governance of AI at all levels, including internationally, to harness its benefits while mitigating its risks.