Project is a reflection of the recognition of the role of independent commissions - HRCM

A three-year project to support “Capacity Development of the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives” was signed Thursday, May 20, between the United Nations and the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) at the UN Building.

The joint project supports the government’s commitment to the provision and establishment of the rule of law and fair justice as a fundamental right for all Maldivians. This project is the second phase of the successfully implemented “Support to the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives” project undertaken from 2006 to 2009, supported by UN agencies.

This phase will support HRCM’s substantive human rights programs and emphasizes institutional and human capacity development and civil society development. As the one of the first democratic institutions to be established in the country, HRCM has been a key partner in the democratic reform process, and in delivering human rights awareness and monitoring in the country.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Andrew Cox, said “the need for a well-functioning human rights watchdog that is effectively managed and efficient is clear. The Maldives has taken many good steps in recent months but more needs to be done to promote a strong country-wide human rights culture. ”

The President of HRCM Mr. Ahmed Saleem thanked the UN system for its continued support and added that “the HRCM could not be where it is today without the UN’s help.” The Commission further noted that it aims to widen its outreach activities through this project by strengthening work with partner NGOs in island communities.

Emphasizing the role of HRCM in contributing towards fostering a culture of human rights in the country, Mr. Cox reiterated the UN’s commitment to providing continued support to HRCM , and helping build capacities of NGOs. Promoting human rights is identified as one of the key priorities in the UN’s five year assistance agreement with Maldives - the United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF).

The project document was signed by Mr. Ahmed Saleem, on behalf of HRCM, and Mr. Andrew Cox and Dr. Jorge Luna on behalf of the UN system. With Mr. Saleem during the signing ceremony were Mr. Mohamed Zahid, Vice-President of HRCM and Mr. Ahmed Shahid, Secretary-General of HRCM. Also present was Ms. Aminath Nashia from the Ministry of Finance and Treasury. The joint project will be implemented by the Commission, with UNDP as managing agency on the part of the UN system.

For any inquiries, you may contact:
UNRC Office: Anna Senga (anna.senga@undp.org); 3343263 / UNDP: Aminath Ibrahim (aminath.ibrahim@undp.org); 3343285