Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef has called for stronger international cooperation and increased climate finance to help vulnerable countries respond to the growing pressures of climate mobility.
Speaking at the High-Level Segment on the Climate Mobility Principles at the Berlin Climate Mobility Forum 2026, Vice President Latheef said climate change is already influencing the lives of Maldivians, the future of the country’s islands, and national development choices. He described climate mobility as an immediate concern rather than a distant risk, arguing that sustainable and practical responses are needed to protect communities exposed to worsening climate impacts.
The Vice President said the Maldives has continued to invest in safer and more climate-resilient islands through coastal protection, resilient infrastructure, and adaptation measures across key sectors. He referred to Hulhumalé as an example of climate-resilient urban planning, while noting that Ras Malé builds on this approach by seeking to improve human security and economic opportunity over the long term.
Vice President Latheef said climate mobility policies should focus on resilience, prevention, and expanding the ability of communities to remain safely in their homes. Where movement becomes necessary, he said it should be planned, voluntary, and dignified.
He also said vulnerable countries cannot manage the scale of climate mobility challenges without adequate and accessible financial support. The Vice President called on development partners to increase concessional and grant-based financing, technology transfer, and capacity building designed around the needs of small island developing states.
Vice President Latheef welcomed the Climate Mobility Principles and expressed the Maldives’ support for people-centred and rights-based approaches. He said such principles must be matched with concrete action to help affected communities build more resilient futures.
