Women’s political participation should be increased, Minister Dunya

Awareness about women’s contribution in society, should be increased to increase women’s political participation, said Ms Dunya Maumoon, Minister of Foreign Affairs. Speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the Workshop on familiarizing various ministries with the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) the Minister highlighted the important achievements and contributions that women have made in Maldivian society. She also noted the progress made in implementing CEDAW in the Maldives.

The one day Workshop which took place on 23 September 2014 and 2 October 2014, was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Law and Gender and the Human Rights Commission of Maldives. The Minister also presented the participants of the program with certificates of recognition at the ceremony.

The Minister highlighted the achievements and progress that has been achieved in eliminating discrimination against women, and to prevent harassment and sexual abuse. She noted in particular the Sexual Offenses Bill of 2014, and Sexual Abuse and Harassment Bill of 2014, which complement the existing Bill on Preventing Domestic Violence of 2012. Noting that much remains to be done, the Minister urged the civil society, independent institutions and society to work with the Government in this regard.

Uz Mohamed Anil, Attorney General of the Maldives also spoke at the event. He highlighted the need to ensure vaccination of children, and prevention of child marriages. He also urged for action on marriages taking place outside the prescribed Court processes.

CEDAW was ratified by the Maldives in 1993, and since the, various legislation has been introduced to make domestic law compliant with the treaty.