Ref: 2026/PR/77
The Government of the Maldives takes note of the preliminary observations by the Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, following her official visit to the Maldives from 26 April to 7 May 2026.
During the visit, the Government facilitated meetings with a range of key stakeholders from the executive, parliament, and the judiciary, and visits to medical facilities in Malé, Dhaalu Atoll and Addu City.
The Government welcomes the Special Rapporteur’s recognition of the progress achieved on universal health care system in the Maldives, as well as vaccination, and efforts towards strengthening regional health care delivery and accessibility. The Government believes that the Special Rapporteur’s conclusions will help the Maldives mobilise international technical and financial support to strengthen commitments and take stronger action in the highlighted areas.
The Maldives remains firmly committed to ensuring the right to health for all people across the country, guided by the principles of universal health coverage, equity, and accessibility, with a continued focus on strengthening the primary care healthcare for prevention.
The Government will review the recommendations made by the Special Rapporteur, and looks forward to continuing efforts towards advancing the right to health for everyone in the Maldives.
The Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, is the first UN special procedures mandate holder to visit the Maldives in 2026, under the Standing Invitation issued by the Government of Maldives. The standing invitation was reiterated by the Government in February 2024.
On Special Procedures Mandate Holders: Special Rapporteurs/Independent Experts/Working Groups (together referred to as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council) are independent human rights experts appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council. Special Procedures experts serve in their individual capacity and are independent from any government or organisation, including the UN. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the UN or OHCHR.
ENDS