19th October 2012, Male'; The Maldives today delivered a statement at the Third Committee of the General Assembly, reiterating its commitment to promote and protect children's rights in the country, and by highlighting ongoing domestic efforts to achieve these objectives.
The Maldives stated that children's right to education remains among its highest priorities, and highlighted efforts to enhance the quality of education as well as gain more access to secondary education and beyond. It also noted that infant mortality rates and child mortality rates in the country had declined in the past 10 years, with better access to healthcare and health services.
In its statement, the Maldives further noted that the recent legislation passed on child sexual abuse has lead to an increase in the number of cases being prosecuted. Maldives, however, acknowledged the need for strengthening the domestic legislative framework on child protection and promotion in order for greater compliance with international legal instruments, in particular the Convention on the Rights of the Child and its optional protocols.
While noting that children are the most vulnerable group in societies around the world, the Maldives reaffirmed that it would be closely working with the international community, UN bodies and civil society to address the myriad of challenges faced by children.
The statement was delivered by Ms. Zenysha Shaheed Zaki, Deputy Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives.
End.