Maldives: UNODC Empowers Maldivian Practitioners to Build Safer Communities and Strengthen Responses against Violent Extremism

Male, Maldives/06 July 2023: On a global scale, public safety, security, stability, and human rights face significant threats from violent extremism and terrorism. Tackling these urgent challenges effectively requires a comprehensive approach that combines law enforcement endeavors with civil society interventions. This approach involves the development of national strategies and legal frameworks, bolstering law enforcement and intelligence capabilities, fostering international cooperation and information sharing, and addressing the root socio-economic factors contributing to the surge of violent extremism.

In this context, a resolute call for unity and collaboration echoed at a UNODC national workshop on preventing violent extremism with partnerships and collaboration between law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations and local communities. The discussion was held in the backdrop of the implementation of Maldives’ National Action Plan (NAP) on preventing violent extremism, and its ongoing review. With participation of 45 criminal justice practitioners from Maldives, the workshop focused on challenges in NAP implementation and transformative strategies to address the risks posed by violent extremism. 22 women officials from law enforcement and criminal justice authorities, ministries of youth and sports, education, local government and civil society also joined the dialogue.

The workshop's innovative delivery methodology delved into tailored case scenarios, prompting profound reflections and insights on crafting agile responses to the complexities of violent extremism in the Maldives. This immersive approach kindled a spirit of unity, resilience, and creativity among participants, empowering them to be the driving force behind change in their communities.

Experts from the European Union, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore presented insights and good practices, highlighting the significance of collaboration and coordination at both local and international levels.

Participants also charted a roadmap for strengthening inter-agency cooperation, with recommendations emphasizing the significance of regular multi-stakeholder meetings for seamless information exchange and NAP implementation updates. Joint capacity-building and awareness-raising activities to fortify the resilience of Maldivian society against extremist ideologies were also suggested.

The establishment of a collaborative framework between government agencies and CSOs will be a pivotal step towards lasting progress, participants said.

UNODC's pioneering initiatives in the Maldives underscore the vital importance of cooperation between law enforcement and civil society in countering violent extremism.  The workshop was held within the framework of two projects: "Support to Addressing the Risk of Terrorism and to Increasing Security in the Maldives," funded by the European Union, and the "Enhancement of Ability in Maritime Safety and Security," supported by the Government of Japan.

This activity contributed to SDG 5, SDG 16 and SDG 17: https://sdg-tracker.org/

(Supported by the European Union and the Government of Japan)