Petition Calls for Urgent Action on Childcare Challenges in Maldives

A public petition has been launched calling for urgent action to address the growing difficulties faced by working families due to the lack of affordable and accessible childcare in the Maldives.

The petition, opened on 1 April under the Childcare for Tomorrow campaign by the local NGO Benefit, highlights the increasing pressure on parents caused by the shortage of daycare and infant-care services, particularly affecting working mothers.

According to the petition, many families are unable to access quality childcare due to limited availability and high costs. With both parents employed in most households, the lack of reliable childcare options has made it more difficult to raise children in a safe and supportive environment.

The initiative notes that the burden falls disproportionately on mothers, many of whom struggle to remain in the workforce in the absence of adequate childcare support. The campaign aims to remove barriers that limit women’s full participation in employment.

Several long-term measures have been proposed, including allowing either parent to work from home from the end of maternity leave until a child reaches two years of age, reducing working hours for parents of infants, and amending employment legislation to introduce stronger protections and greater flexibility. The proposals also include establishing support mechanisms for parents whose roles cannot be performed remotely.

The organisation states that addressing the childcare gap would improve conditions for raising children, reduce reliance on foreign caregivers, and help employers retain staff. It would also expand employment opportunities for individuals living outside the Malé region.

According to the Parliament’s e-petition portal, 187 people have signed the petition so far. The petition will remain open for signatures until 21 May 2026 and is available for endorsement online through the eFaas platform.