The Maldives will adopt recommendations from the United Nations’ Universal Periodic Review only if they do not conflict with the country’s Constitution, domestic laws or the principles of Islam, the Attorney General’s Office said.
In its announcement, the office underscored the government’s position that international human rights proposals must be reconciled with national legal and religious frameworks before they can be considered for implementation.
The declaration followed the conclusion of the fourth cycle of the UPR, in which the Maldives’ review advanced successfully. The Working Group’s report was adopted on 14 November, after its meeting on 5 November. In that session, 104 countries participated, submitting 284 recommendations for the Maldives to weigh in the coming cycle.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, the proposals covered a wide range of social and developmental priorities. They included strengthening social protection, empowering women and children, combating human trafficking, addressing climate change and ensuring broad participation in drafting development plans.
Officials stressed that the Maldives is obliged to carry out only those recommendations it formally accepts. The government will respond to the Human Rights Council at its next session, indicating which measures it will adopt and which it will decline, the AGO said.
In deciding whether to accept or reject the 284 recommendations, the government will consult with stakeholders through the National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-up. The Attorney General’s Office said compliance with the Constitution, existing laws and Islamic principles will be the decisive factor.
The office reiterated that implementation will proceed only after ensuring recommendations do not conflict with national law or Islam. It also expressed gratitude to the NMIRF Committee and state institutions for their cooperation, which it said contributed to the successful advancement of the Maldives’ review during the fourth UPR cycle.