The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has pledged an aid package of USD 4.4 million to the Maldives, aimed at enhancing media literacy and supporting democratic reforms. The announcement was made during USAID’s “Democracy Delivers” event, held on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79).
Launched in 2022 by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and USAID Administrator Samantha Power, the Democracy Delivers Initiative seeks to assist countries undergoing democratic transitions. The event, organised in partnership with the Ford Foundation, brought together government leaders, philanthropic organisations, and civil society representatives to boost support for nations like the Maldives, which are experiencing democratic renewal.
The majority of the funds, USD 3 million, will be allocated to programmes aimed at strengthening media literacy and fostering information resilience. This includes efforts to improve transparency in public and media sectors and to equip citizens, particularly the youth, with the skills to critically engage with media and social media content. The remaining USD 1.4 million will focus on raising awareness of democratic rights and civic engagement, with collaborations involving local councils and women’s development committees (WDCs) to ensure greater accountability and transparency in democratic processes.
This investment aligns with the Maldives’ broader efforts to increase transparency, encourage civic participation, and solidify accountable governance. USAID emphasised its commitment to supporting the Maldives as it continues to implement critical economic and democratic reforms, while fostering a sustainable and inclusive economy.
During the event, the Maldives’ Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ali Naseer Mohamed, highlighted the nation’s progress in democracy and welcomed the new investment. The Maldives is part of a coalition of countries receiving support through this initiative. Other partners, including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, have also pledged to collaborate with USAID in advancing democratic resilience and information integrity in the Maldives and other nations.
Philanthropic organisations further expanded their commitments to the Democracy Delivers Initiative, highlighting the global importance of supporting democratic reforms and information resilience in nations like the Maldives.
