President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to building a Maldives where every woman and girl can live free from violence, whether in homes, workplaces, communities, or digital spaces, as the Maldives marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
In his message, the President highlighted the need to eliminate all forms of violence, noting that rapid technological and Artificial Intelligence advancements have heightened the risks of digital abuse and amplified online threats.
This year’s theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” draws attention to the growing prevalence of online harassment and exploitation, with the President stressing that technology must remain a tool of empowerment rather than harm.
Highlighting national efforts to strengthen legal and institutional safeguards, he noted that the Sixth Amendment to the Penal Code, enacted in December 2024, introduces a comprehensive framework to address cybercrime, clearly defining acts of digital abuse and ensuring accountability. The Maldives’ signing of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime in October 2025 further reinforces the country’s commitment to international cooperation in preventing and combating technology-enabled violence.
However, the President added that legislation alone is not enough, calling for a collective shift towards digital responsibility through awareness, education, and strong support systems. He said the nation must move forward with unity and compassion to ensure every woman and girl feels safe and empowered in both physical and digital spaces.
In a related post on his official X account, President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to protecting women and girls from violence, noting the growing risks of online harassment in an increasingly interconnected digital world and calling for collective action to ensure emerging technologies empower them.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed also shared a message on her official X account, voicing solidarity with those affected by violence. She highlighted that every woman and girl deserves safety, dignity, and the freedom to thrive, rejecting the normalisation of digital abuse. She added that digital spaces should empower women and girls, and that there is no excuse for online abuse or intimidation. The First Lady called for collective action to ensure safer digital and physical environments for all women and girls.
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on 25 November, marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism, a period to raise awareness, advocate for policy change, and prevent violence against women and girls.
