LocationsMalé, Maldives | 12th February 2025
Strengthening Civil Society Engagement: UNDP Supports HRCM's CSO Forum in February 2025
February 12, 2025
HRCM-CSO Forum
UNDP
On 12th February 2025, UNDP Maldives, with support from the Government of the UK, partnered with the Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) to host a significant Civil Society Organization (CSO) Forum. The event focused on the rollout of the HRCM CSO Engagement and Capacity Building Strategy, an initiative supported by UNDP’s TPP Project in 2024. This forum brought together CSOs from across the country to collaborate on enhancing civil society engagement and capacity building, with a vision to strengthen partnerships and advocate for civic space.
A Platform for Dialogue and Collaboration
The CSO Forum was a valuable opportunity to reflect on the progress made in increasing HRCM’s engagement with CSOs over the past year. With opening remarks delivered by HRCM Member Shifaath, the session highlighted the key role that civil society organizations play in the democratic processes and human rights initiatives in the Maldives.
Identifying Collaborative Activities
The event’s agenda was designed to facilitate group discussions and collaborative thinking around practical activities under the CSO Engagement and Capacity Building Strategy, which UNDP assisted in developing. The participants proposed specific initiatives and discussed ways to enhance partnerships between HRCM and the wider civil society sector, aiming to create a more effective and supportive environment for advocacy and community action.
HRCM - CSO Forum
UNDP
Strengthening Partnerships and Capacity Building
A central focus of the forum was strengthening partnerships between HRCM and CSOs. Discussions revolved around overcoming challenges in partnership dynamics and identifying solutions to foster more robust collaboration. Capacity building also featured prominently, with sessions aimed at pinpointing training needs and exploring joint capacity-building initiatives that would empower civil society organizations in their critical work.
Advocating for Civic Space and Legal Reform
The forum also tackled advocacy for civic space, addressing the need for legal and policy reforms that support civil society's work. Key discussions focused on identifying legal and policy areas that require reform to enhance the operational space for CSOs and improve their ability to engage in meaningful advocacy.
HRCM - CSO Forum
UNDP
Monitoring Progress and Defining Next Steps
The forum concluded with a session on monitoring and evaluation, where participants brainstormed how to track the progress of the strategies discussed and assess their impact over time. The closing remarks from CSOs, the British High Commission, UNDP, and HRCM underscored the importance of continuing these conversations and taking concrete actions to further strengthen civil society engagement in the Maldives.
Looking Ahead
UNDP Maldives remains committed to promoting human rights, and supporting the development of a vibrant and empowered civil society, and this forum marks a significant step forward in fostering deeper engagement and collaboration between HRCM and CSOs. The insights and strategies shared will guide future efforts to promote human rights, enhance civic participation, and build the capacity of CSOs across the nation.