The Maldives government has welcomed the preliminary observations made by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to health, Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, following her official visit to the country from April 26 to May 7.
In a statement, the government said it facilitated meetings between the Special Rapporteur and key stakeholders from the executive, parliament and judiciary during the visit. Visits were also arranged to medical facilities in Male’, Dhaalu Atoll and Addu City.
The government noted that the Special Rapporteur recognised progress achieved by the Maldives on universal healthcare system, vaccination programmes and efforts towards strengthening regional healthcare delivery and accessibility.
According to the statement, the government believes the Special Rapporteur’s conclusions would help the Maldives mobilise international technical and financial support to strengthen healthcare commitments and address highlighted areas.
The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the right to health for all people across the country, guided by universal health coverage, equity and accessibility. It also highlighted continued efforts to strengthen primary healthcare and preventive care services.
The statement added that the government would review the recommendations made by the Special Rapporteur and continue efforts to advance the right to health in the Maldives.
The government noted that Dr Mofokeng is the first UN Special Procedures mandate holder to visit the Maldives in 2026 under the standing invitation extended by the Maldives government. The standing invitation was reiterated by the government in February 2024.