Maldives urges gender balance in parliament: President Muizzu

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to improving gender balance in parliament, calling the low representation of women a “pressing issue” both nationally and globally.

In a post on X to mark International Day of Parliamentarism, celebrated worldwide today, President Muizzu said parliaments play a vital role in upholding democracy and promoting good governance.

“The underrepresentation of women in parliament remains a pressing issue both globally and nationally. In this regard, the Maldives reaffirms its commitment to fostering gender balance and creating an inclusive environment within the parliament,” he said.

He added that parliament must uphold the principles that strengthen parliaments and ensure they serve the people with purpose and integrity.

Currently, only three members of Maldives’ 93-seat parliament are women.

While two seats in island councils are already reserved for female candidates, no such quota has yet been introduced for parliament.