Maldives Joins 46th Session of Universal Periodic Review

Today marked the start of the 46th Session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. The session, slated to span two weeks, will run until May 10, 2024. Over this period, 14 states will undergo scrutiny regarding their respective human rights records.

The countries slated for review during this session include Afghanistan, Chile, Cambodia, Comoros, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Eritrea, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Slovakia, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Vietnam, and Yemen.

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The UPR Working Group, which convenes three sessions annually, initiated the Fourth Cycle review in November 2022. This cycle is expected to conclude in 2027. 

The UPR stands as a State-driven mechanism designed to evaluate the human rights situation across all United Nations Member States. It offers a platform for the States under review to present progress made in fulfilling human rights obligations and commitments within their territories. Additionally, it allows fellow Member States to offer constructive recommendations for enhancing the implementation of these obligations.

Each State’s review is facilitated by groups of three States, referred to as “troikas,” who act as rapporteurs. Notably, the Maldives, a member of the Human Rights Council, has been selected to represent the troika for the review of Yemen.

Heading the Maldives delegation for the 46th Session of the UPR is Dr. Salma Rasheed, Chargé d’affaires at the Permanent Mission of Maldives to the United Nations Office and other International Organisations in Geneva. Dr. Rasheed is accompanied by Counsellor Mr. Adam Hamid, Counsellor Uza. Aminath Shifaya Ibrahim, Second Secretary Ms. Maryam Fathika Fayaz, and Attaché Mr. Raaidh Saeedh, all from the Permanent Mission.

Aligned with the government’s core policies and priorities, the Maldives delegation pledges to actively engage and offer constructive recommendations during this UPR Session.