The government on Monday has officially launched the National Migrant Health Policy, reaffirming the Maldives’ commitment to equitable, inclusive healthcare for all.
The National Migrant Health Policy is designed to ensure the health of migrants living in the Maldives and to facilitate equitable access to health services. The main objective of this policy is to protect and ensure the right to basic healthcare for foreigners.
The policy was officially launched by the Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim during a special ceremony held in the capital Male’ on Monday.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Director General of the Health Protection Agency (HPA), Maimoona Aboobakr said this initiative reflects the government’s efforts to eliminate discrimination, improve service delivery and ensure the health of everyone living in the country.
According to Maimoona, the policy is based on research, consultations with international stakeholders and national health priorities. The cooperation and assistance of all relevant agencies will be required to implement this policy, she said.
"Implementing this policy will require sustained collaboration among health authorities, labour management, immigration and other agencies, including strengthening our health system, building capacity, and enabling our health care providers to provide culturally appropriate care," she explained.
Speaking at the ceremony, International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Regional Director for Asia Kato Lori said the launch of the policy on the health of migrants signals the government's intent to strengthen the healthcare system in the Maldives.
"This document is not just a health policy. It is a strong statement from the government. It helps to protect the health and dignity of all, regardless of their migration status,” he said.
The national policy on the health of foreigners is focused on five main areas
• Changing perceptions across government and society as a whole
• Provide quality health services to foreigners
• Collect and use valid information
• Reduce vulnerabilities
• Establishment of systems
The Ministry of Health said that with the implementation of the policy, the rights of migrants to basic healthcare will be fully protected and ensured along with equitable and inclusive health care for all.