The Maldives’ national disability registry has expanded to nearly 15,000 individuals, according to figures released by the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA). The data, current as of the end of September, underscores the government’s continuing effort to maintain a comprehensive record while also revealing persistent gender disparities within the registered population.
By the close of September, 14,790 people were officially listed. Of these, 8,597 were men and 6,193 were women, a gap that reflects a broader imbalance across age groups. The registry, central to the government’s social protection framework, is intended to ensure that persons with disabilities receive state assistance. It is also supported by a National Action Plan designed to safeguard rights and strengthen institutional accountability.
The figures provide a detailed picture of demographic distribution. Children under the age of 18 accounted for 4,950 of those registered, with boys far outnumbering girls, 3,469 compared with 1,490. The largest cohort was working-age adults, between 18 and 64 years old, comprising 7,526 individuals. Within this group, 3,878 were men and 3,648 were women. Seniors aged 65 and above made up 2,305 of the total.
Officials note that the registry is continuously updated, ensuring that state support is delivered effectively to those who qualify. With the total number of registered individuals now surpassing 14,700, the database has become a critical instrument in shaping disability policy and addressing the needs of some of the country’s most vulnerable citizens.