Forum under way on improving human rights situation

A forum led by the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) focused on strengthening human rights systems in the Maldives is under way at STELCO building in Malé.

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Forum is attended by institutions representing all three powers of the state.

The UPR is a United Nations (UN) mechanism introduced in 2005 to examine and address human rights issues in all member countries.

HRCM Director Ahmed Ameen said that by the end of the last UPR cycle, Maldives had received 258 recommendations.

“…The last UPR cycle ended in May this year. We have received 258 recommendations, so we have to begin efforts now. Each cycle is four-and-a-half years,” Ameen said.

He added that the purpose of today’s meeting was to inform relevant state institutions of the UPR recommendations, and begin efforts towards implementation.