Maldives Collects Biometric Data from Over 150,000 Expat Workers

The Maldives has collected biometric data from over 150,000 expatriate workers, marking a significant step in efforts to establish a lasting framework to protect the rights of migrant workers.

The initiative, known as ‘Operation Kurangi’, was launched by the Home Ministry on 2 May 2024 under the instructions of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The operation aims to register the country’s large expatriate population and address longstanding challenges related to undocumented workers.

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The announcement coincided with Labour Day, which the President marked by highlighting what he described as a new milestone in his administration’s achievements. According to the President, the collected biometric data, which includes ten fingerprints and facial recognition photos, has now been added to the national database.

The President underscored the importance of recognising the contributions of expatriate workers, who make up the majority of the Maldivian workforce, particularly as the country commemorates Labour Day. He stressed that many expatriate workers have seen their basic human rights compromised due to their undocumented or irregular status and reiterated his administration’s commitment to finding a long-term solution.

The Home Ministry has indicated that the difficulties currently faced in recruiting expatriate workers are expected to ease once Operation Kurangi is completed. The first phase of the operation focuses on regularising the status of all expatriate workers currently in the Maldives.

According to the most recent census, expatriates account for 132,371 out of the Maldives’ population of around 500,000, with a significant portion of this group believed to be undocumented.

The government views the biometric registration drive as a critical step towards improving the management of the country’s foreign workforce and upholding their rights.