The Maldives government and the United Nations have initiated the process of shaping their next phase of development cooperation, setting the groundwork for a new framework that will guide joint priorities from 2027 to 2031.
The first Joint Steering Committee (JSC) meeting for the upcoming United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) brought together senior representatives from government ministries and UN agencies to begin aligning future UN support with national development goals. The committee, co-chaired by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, serves as the main oversight body for the cooperation framework and meets annually to review progress, assess challenges, and set strategic direction.
Discussions at the meeting focused on the roadmap for developing the new UNSDCF, with participants reviewing findings from the final evaluation of the current 2022–2026 framework as well as the UN Country Analysis. The review pointed to areas of progress in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), alongside persistent challenges that will need to be addressed in the next phase.
The upcoming framework is expected to place greater emphasis on integration and adaptability, with a stronger focus on national priorities. It will also continue to be guided by principles such as human rights, gender equality, sustainability, resilience, and accountability. The framework is intended to support the Maldives’ broader development ambitions, including its target of achieving developed country status by 2040 and the priorities set out in the forthcoming National Development Plan, while also aligning with international commitments such as the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States.
Ambassador Ahmed Shiaan, Secretary for Multilateral Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the importance of coordination among stakeholders and the need to translate priorities into practical outcomes. He noted that insights from the discussions should inform the next stages of the framework’s development.
UN Resident Coordinator Hao Zhang also acknowledged the role of the Joint Steering Committee in guiding the formulation process and expressed appreciation for the continued engagement of partners.
The committee reaffirmed its commitment to a consultative approach in developing the framework, with the aim of ensuring that it reflects the needs and aspirations of people across the Maldives.
