The Speaker of Parliament, Abdul Raheem Abdulla on Monday underscored the role of parliaments in improving people’s lives through legislation, oversight, and political will.
Addressing the the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, he outlined key legislation passed by the Maldives Parliament 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 emphasised that these laws are being implemented effectively through active oversight by parliamentary committees.
During his speech, the Speaker reaffirmed 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 modernising welfare distribution.
He also emphasised 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.
Recognising the challenges and opportunities of digital technology, he 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, Speaker Abdul Raheem described climate change as an existential threat to the Maldives and urged IPU members to protect vulnerable nations and commit to sustainability.
The Speaker called for unity, dialogue, and renewed political will, and urged 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.