The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the Maldives’ membership in the Asia Pacific Regional Forum on Health and the Environment (APRFHE), following a proposal presented by the Ministry of Health during a cabinet meeting on 1 December 2024.
Membership in the APRFHE is set to enhance the Maldives’ collaboration with member states, fostering regional cooperation in health and environmental policy development. It also provides a platform to advocate for measures aimed at mitigating the effects of environmental challenges on public health.
The forum offers opportunities for integrating digital health solutions into health and environmental care services, supported by access to specialised technical expertise. Additionally, the Maldives will gain access to academic initiatives and tools for assessing public health risks related to toxic pollutants and climate change, enabling joint efforts to address these challenges.
Membership is also expected to provide the Maldives with technical training opportunities while strengthening advocacy for incorporating health considerations into sectors such as transport, energy, and education. The forum’s objectives align with global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement, and the Minamata Convention.
Established in 2004, the APRFHE focuses on addressing the impact of environmental hazards on human health. It facilitates collaboration among government sectors and promotes knowledge-sharing and best practices to safeguard public health.
Importantly, joining the forum does not entail any financial obligations for the Maldives. The voluntary nature of serving as Chair of the Regional Forum further underscores the Maldives’ commitment to advancing the forum’s goals.
