President Dr Muizzu Calls for Unity, Collaboration in Achieving a Just Future for All Maldivians

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that his administration is dedicated to promoting fairness, equality, and justice for all. He made this statement in a message shared on the occasion of World Day of Social Justice, marked today.

In his message, President Dr Muizzu underscored the importance of reaffirming the commitment of all Maldivians to creating a world where social equity and environmental sustainability are in harmony. The theme for the 2025 observance is "Strengthening A Just Transition For A Sustainable Future."

"This theme recognises the challenges that come with ensuring environmental sustainability alongside the rapid pace of economic development," he stated, noting its deep resonance with the Maldives, a small island developing state, and its alignment with both national priorities and global aspirations.

The Maldives joined the Global Coalition for Social Justice in July 2024, demonstrating its commitment to advancing social justice through collective action, strengthening societal resilience, and improving coherence between cross-sectoral policies. This membership fosters dialogue for shared prosperity.

"We have set ambitious development goals to improve the lives of everyone living in our geographically dispersed islands," President Dr Muizzu said, as the Maldives makes bold strides to transform its economy and future development trajectory. The government is also committed to transforming the urban landscape through projects like the development of Ras Malé and other urban centers across the Maldives, he added.

Dr Muizzu highlighted the need to align the Maldives' economic growth with environmental sustainability, given the vulnerability of its islands to climate change. "Ras Malé will serve as a pioneering Eco-City, setting new sustainability standards while addressing critical housing needs and fostering economic prosperity for our citizens," he stated.

Reaffirming the commitment to a low-carbon economy, President Dr Muizzu outlined key initiatives to increase the country's renewable energy sources to 33 percent by 2028 and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. "Our ambition to achieve a low-carbon economy must include all and benefit all," he said, highlighting the comprehensive approach embedded in the Energy Roadmap 2024-2033, which aims to strengthen energy security and ensure that gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) are central to policy development.

President Dr Muizzu also highlighted the importance of coherent policies across various sectors, including economic, environmental, social, educational, and labour. "Coherent policies are being put in place across economic, environmental, social, educational, and labor sectors to drive this transition," he stated. These policies, the president stated, aim to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), workers, investors, and consumers to actively participate in creating an inclusive and sustainable economy.

Inclusive opportunities are another focal point, ensuring that no one is left behind. "We acknowledge the significance of creating opportunities for vulnerable groups, such as women, persons with disabilities, youth, and the elderly, ensuring that no one is excluded from this transition," President Dr Muizzu said.

As the Maldives drives towards a greener future, the president's message underlines the nation's dedication to a sustainable and inclusive economy, fostering a brighter future for all its citizens. He also underscored the importance of establishing robust social protection systems to safeguard communities against external shocks, economic risks, and environmental challenges.

"Creating a strong social protection system is essential for ensuring a just transition," President Dr Muizzu stated, highlighting the government's dedication to implementing community-focused, participatory governance that integrates traditional and indigenous knowledge to develop decentralized solutions.

Modern technologies play a crucial role in this transition, with President Dr Muizzu stating, "We intend to achieve this by incorporating modern technologies and digitally transforming our society to ensure a smart, safe, and sustainable future for all."

Finally, President Dr Muizzu emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving a just future for all. "Ultimately, the substantive realization of a just future for all requires that we all work together," he stated. He also called on the nation to revive the traditional spirit of community and social cohesion, urging citizens to look out for one another and to draw lessons and strength from the past to create a better today and an even brighter tomorrow for everyone.