Maldives Advocates Research Linking Climate and Health at COP28

In a move at the 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28), the Maldives has called for comprehensive research to investigate the correlation between climate change and its impact on the well-being of citizens in vulnerable nations. Minister of Health, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, emphasised the need to understand the connection between climate shifts and public health during discussions at the conference.

During the conference, Khaleel actively participated in the World Health Organisation (WHO) Informal Meeting of the Members of the Executive Board. The primary focus of these discussions revolved around WHO Governance reform and the Election processes of Regional Directors.

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Furthermore, the Minister contributed to the First Climate-Health Ministerial meeting at COP28. In his remarks, he underscored the susceptibility of the Maldives and other small island developing states due to low-lying geography. He emphasised the urgency for a unified effort to minimise the health impacts arising from climate-related challenges.

Speaking to local media, Khaleel revealed that the country outlined its strategy for achieving sustainable development goals at COP28. The delegation actively engaged in discussions and heightened awareness surrounding climate change mitigation, specifically addressing measures to counteract the adverse effects on health.

An outcome of COP28 was the endorsement of the Climate and Health Declaration by 123 countries. The declaration aims to expedite actions geared toward safeguarding public health against escalating climate impacts. The agreement spans various domains, including the development of more resilient health systems, fostering cross-sectoral collaboration to mitigate emissions, and maximising health benefits derived from climate action.