Ref: 2026/PR/32
The 61st Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council commenced today in Geneva, Switzerland. The session opened with the High-Level Segment, which will take place from 23 to 25 February 2026, followed by the General Segment scheduled from 26 February to 31 March 2026.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, will address the Human Rights Council today. In his statement, Minister Khaleel will brief the Council on the progress achieved by the Government of Maldives, under the leadership of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, in promoting and protecting human rights.
Furthermore, Minister Khaleel will reaffirm Maldives’ commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, both domestically and internationally, as a fundamental pillar for sustainable and inclusive development. His address will also draw attention to the specific challenges faced by Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), emphasizing the importance of ensuring their meaningful and sustained participation in the work of the Council.
As part of his engagements, Minister Khaleel will participate as a panellist in a high-level side event hosted by Slovenia and co-sponsored by the Maldives, titled “Advancing Human Rights and Equality: Investing in Women and Political Leadership in Multilateralism,” to be held on 24 February 2026.
In line with the Government’s key policies and priorities, the Maldives’ delegation will deliver national statements during the General Segment under several agenda items. The Maldives will also deliver two joint statements on behalf of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) based in Geneva.
The Maldives delegation to the High-Level Segment of the 61st Session of the Human Rights Council will be led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel. The delegation includes Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations Offices at Geneva Dr. Salma Rasheed; Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ms. Mariyam Midhfa Naeem; Counsellor at the Maldives Mission to the United Nations Offices at Geneva Mr. Adam Hamid; Counsellor at the Maldives Mission to the United Nations Offices in Geneva Uza. Aminath Shifaya Ibrahim; Second Secretary at the Maldives Mission to the United Nations Offices at Geneva Ms. Aishath Rayahyn; Desk Officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ms. Faiha Ahmed Firaq; and Attaché at the Maldives Mission to the United Nations Offices at Geneva Mr. Mohamed Raaidh Saeedh.
ENDS