President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has outlined a series of reforms aimed at strengthening the Maldives' efforts to combat human trafficking, while calling for greater cooperation to protect vulnerable individuals and uphold human dignity.

In a message marking the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the President urged employers, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and the public to remain vigilant as the country continues to expand its economy, international partnerships, and digital connectivity.

He emphasized the need to prevent these developments from being exploited by human trafficking networks.

The President reaffirmed the Maldives' commitment to working with international partners to safeguard fundamental rights and address the evolving methods used by trafficking networks, particularly the growing misuse of technology and online scam operations to exploit vulnerable people.

Highlighting government initiatives, President Dr. Muizzu said Operation Kurangi has played a key role in reducing unverified work permits while significantly expanding biometric registration among the foreign workforce.

He also pointed to broader institutional reforms introduced under the Human Trafficking Prevention Act, including the development of the Maldives' first National Action Plan on Human Trafficking, the submission of the country's first annual anti-trafficking report to Parliament, and the reconstitution of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Coordination Committee.

Additional measures include the establishment of the Migrant Workers Resource Centre and the Migrant Connect Portal, which provide support and assistance to migrant workers experiencing abuse or exploitation.

The President said these initiatives are designed to reduce vulnerabilities, improve victim identification and protection, strengthen investigations and prosecutions, and enhance cooperation among government agencies and international partners.

He also highlighted the Maldives Anti-Human Trafficking Strategic Plan 2026–2029, describing it as a roadmap for reinforcing the country's long-term response through stronger institutions, improved victim support, and closer collaboration across sectors.

While acknowledging that significant challenges remain, President Dr. Muizzu stressed that combating human trafficking requires sustained cooperation at both the national and international levels to ensure every individual is protected and treated with dignity.