The Maldivian government is working to establish a permanent facility in Malé to provide comprehensive protection and support to victims of human trafficking, according to the Ministry of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology.

State Minister for Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Dr. Abdulla Phairoosch said authorities are currently studying options for creating a dedicated center after relying on temporary accommodation in Gulhifalhu, Himmafushi and rented facilities in the capital.

The proposed facility would bring essential services together in one location, including medical treatment, psychological counseling, legal assistance and secure accommodation.

Authorities are conducting research and planning for the center, with victim safety identified as a key priority.

Phairoosch said the existing arrangements have created logistical difficulties, particularly when services need to be coordinated outside Malé.

A permanent facility in the capital is expected to make it easier for authorities to provide consistent assistance and collect information from victims.

The State Minister also highlighted continuing cases of exploitation involving foreign workers, including unpaid wages, confiscation of passports and poor working conditions.

He identified the collection of sufficient evidence as one of the main challenges in pursuing trafficking cases.

Some victims leave the Maldives after receiving outstanding wages and may be unwilling to continue with legal proceedings, making it more difficult for authorities to build cases against alleged traffickers.

Phairoosch said authorities need to develop stronger mechanisms that allow investigations and prosecutions to proceed using available evidence even when victims are unable or unwilling to provide formal statements.

The government considers the proposed center part of broader efforts to strengthen the country's response to human trafficking and improve protection mechanisms for vulnerable workers and victims.