President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Maldives will conduct its 2030 population census using a hybrid model that combines administrative records with traditional census enumeration.
In a message marking World Population Day, the President said accurate population data is essential for shaping development policies that respond to the needs of society. He said the Government is working to strengthen administrative registers, improve evidence-based decision-making, reduce operational costs and increase the efficiency of public services.
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The President said the Government intends to implement the hybrid census model through legislative reforms designed to ensure no one is left uncounted, supported by an inclusive roadmap.
He also highlighted the country’s ongoing demographic transition, noting that the Maldives is expected to have a relatively larger elderly population in the coming years. He said greater investment in the health and wellbeing of young people is needed while preparing to meet the growing demands of an ageing population.
Dr Muizzu said promoting healthy lifestyles among young people would help reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases and delay the onset of age-related illnesses, contributing to a healthier and more productive workforce.
The President also stressed the importance of strengthening care services and developing the care economy. He said expanding these services would improve healthcare and social support for older people while reducing the unpaid caregiving burden often carried by families, particularly women and girls.
He added that strengthening care services, protecting human dignity and creating opportunities for older people to remain active in the workforce would contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous Maldives.
The President said sustainable development depends not only on population size but also on the country’s ability to empower young people to achieve their full potential. He noted that the Maldives 2.0 initiative aims to modernise public services, expand digital infrastructure and build a stronger digital economy.
He said the Government continues to prioritise quality education and meaningful employment opportunities for young people, who account for around 39 per cent of the population.
