HRCM Trains 30 Human Rights Defenders in Five-Day Training in Laamu Atoll 

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has concluded a five-day training programme in Laamu Atoll aimed at developing a network of community-based human rights defenders.

The Human Rights Defenders Programme, held in L. Gan from September 20 to 24, trained 30 participants, including 18 women and 12 men, who received certificates at a closing ceremony held on Thursday.

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The programme was designed to equip participants to raise public awareness of human rights, work collectively within their communities and hold state institutions accountable.

During the commission’s visit to Laamu Atoll, three HRCM teams also conducted awareness sessions on human rights and the Whistleblower Protection Act in 11 islands.

The sessions were held in L. Maabaidhoo, L. Dhanbidhoo, L. Isdhoo, L. Kalaidhoo, L. Maamendhoo, L. Hithadhoo, L. Kunahandhoo, L. Maavah, L. Mundoo, L. Gan and L. Fonadhoo, with 569 people participating, including 393 women and 176 men.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, HRCM President Dr Aishath Rameela said human rights defenders play a vital role in protecting and upholding rights in society.

She said the commission hoped the training would enable participants to actively raise awareness and speak out against abuse and discrimination.

L. Gan Council Member Salma Umar also highlighted the importance of such programmes in Laamu Atoll and the role of human rights advocates in promoting a mutually respectful society.

Participant Ibrahim Naseeb said the programme strengthened connections among people seeking to bring about social change and represented a step towards building a united community advocating for human rights.

This year’s programme was the fifth conducted by HRCM and had the highest number of participants to date.

The programme was previously held in Kulhudhuffushi City in 2021, Fuvahmulah City in 2023, Malé in 2024 and GA. Villingili in 2025. 

The commission said that the initiative forms part of HRCM’s mandate to support civil society organisations in protecting human rights and its Civil Society Engagement and Capacity Building Strategy. It is also aligned with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and was based on the commission’s Human Rights Defenders Manual.