The Maldives has called for the restoration of Palestinian rights and dignity, urging the international community to act beyond preserving only physical infrastructure after destruction. Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullah Khaleel spoke at the UN Human Rights Council, highlighting the need for concrete actions to support the Palestinian cause, and emphasized the Maldives’ commitment to human rights both globally and domestically.
The Maldives has urged the international community to go beyond merely rebuilding structures in Palestine, emphasizing the necessity to restore the fundamental rights, human dignity, and livelihoods of the Palestinian people. During the 58th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullah Khaleel stated that condemning the ongoing attacks on Gaza is insufficient without concrete action to support the Palestinian cause.
Dr. Khaleel expressed that the world’s current responses are critical in assessing adherence to UN principles of justice and human dignity. He acknowledged the recent ceasefire in Gaza but insisted that this must not be viewed as a definitive resolution to the ongoing conflict. He articulated that the focus must extend beyond physical reconstruction to encompass genuine restoration of rights and dignity.
In his address, Dr. Khaleel reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to upholding international human rights treaties while ensuring the protection of the rights of its citizens. He spotlighted the nation’s proactive engagement as a member of the Human Rights Council and its role in establishing a trust fund facilitating small island nations’ participation.
The minister underscored the importance of recognizing a clean and sustainable environment as an inherent human right. Under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s leadership, the Maldives is tackling social issues, including gender equality, housing adequacy, community inclusion for individuals with disabilities, and addressing climate change impacts.
The ongoing 58th session of the Human Rights Council will conclude on April 4, 2023. As a UN Human Rights Council member from 2023 to 2025, the Maldives aims to continue advocating for heightened human rights protections globally.
The Maldives has called for a comprehensive approach to the Palestinian issue, highlighting the shortcomings of merely reconstructing physical structures. By prioritizing the restoration of human rights and dignity, the Maldives emphasizes its commitment to international law and human rights, while also continuing to address domestic social issues under its current administration. The nation’s participation in the Human Rights Council reflects its ongoing dedication to these principles.
Original Source: edition.mv
