The Maldives has called for increased international financial assistance to help vulnerable countries address and recover from the impacts of climate change.
The appeal was made by the Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Dr Salma Rasheed, during the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC62). She delivered the statement at the Annual Panel Discussion on the Adverse Impacts of Climate Change on Human Rights.
In her remarks, Dr Salma highlighted the disproportionate challenges faced by climate-vulnerable countries, including the Maldives, and stressed the need for stronger international support.
She called on all states to adopt the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), an international framework developed by the United Nations to assess a country's vulnerability to economic, environmental and social shocks. The index is designed to provide a more comprehensive measure of vulnerability than traditional indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or per capita income, enabling countries to access assistance based on actual needs.
Dr Salma also urged the international community to increase grant-based adaptation finance and ensure the full capitalisation and replenishment of multilateral climate funds, including the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage.
She emphasised that climate-vulnerable nations often bear the greatest burden when the effects of climate change undermine fundamental human rights.
During an interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on Climate Change and Human Rights, the Maldives highlighted the close link between climate resilience and food security.
In its statement, the Maldives presented its traditional pole-and-line fishing method as a global example of sustainable fisheries management. The delegation noted that community-driven initiatives help create sustainable livelihoods while strengthening resilience to climate-related challenges.
The Maldives also stressed the importance of building robust food security systems and called for enhanced international cooperation, stronger grant-based climate financing mechanisms and greater support for locally led solutions.
On the sidelines of the Human Rights Council session, the Permanent Mission of the Maldives in Geneva participated in a cultural exhibition.
The Maldivian exhibition showcased the country's cultural heritage, traditional handicrafts, local cuisine and literature. Visitors were provided with an opportunity to learn about the Maldives' unique customs, traditions and national identity.