The Ministry of Social and Family Development is moving ahead with plans to establish temporary shelters for survivors of domestic violence across three regions of the Maldives.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Minister Dr. Aishath Shiham said the ministry has a duty to ensure protection and support for those affected by abuse.

She noted that one of the biggest challenges has been the lack of safe facilities where victims and their families can be relocated.

To close this gap, the ministry has begun developing dedicated shelters. Construction is already underway in Hithadhoo, Addu City, while additional facilities are planned for Hulhumalé and R. Inguraidhoo.

Recruitment has also been announced for positions linked to the Hulhumalé centre.

The minister stressed that preventing domestic violence requires collective responsibility and called on communities to actively support victims and work toward prevention.

She further highlighted that island councils now hold defined roles under the Regulations on Delegation of Responsibility to Councils under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, enacted last September.

Under these rules, anyone who witnesses or becomes aware of a domestic violence case must immediately notify the police.