Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Refine your search by selecting a city.
The Maldives is a strictly Islamic country that has specific laws related to discrimination. While the constitution of the Maldives grants equal fundamental rights and freedoms to all citizens, it has been recognized by international bodies that discrimination does occur in the country, especially regarding gender, beliefs, and sexual orientation. Discrimination Law in Maldives involves understanding to which extent the constitution and other active laws protect against discrimination and how these provisions are implemented in everyday situations.
In situations where you feel you've been unfairly treated or discriminated against based on factors such as sex, race, religion, color, or nationality, seeking the advice of a lawyer may be necessary. Likewise, you may require legal help if you face workplace discrimination, prejudice in accessing services, or if you become a victim of hate speech or any form of discriminatory action.
The constitution of Maldives, under chapter II - Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, stipulates everyone shall be entitled to the fundamental rights and freedoms without discrimination. It highlights specific protected classes including race, national origin, color, sex, age, mental or physical disability, political beliefs, and family responsibilities.
However, the country’s religious context shapes its legal system, and certain issues such as homosexuality are criminalized, a situation that is often seen as a form of discrimination. Public policy, especially in the areas of employment, tends to be ambiguous, and this can sometimes undermine the constitutional anti-discrimination protections.
Discrimination in Maldives typically refers to unfair treatment of individuals or groups based on factors such as sex, race, religion, color, or nationality. It is primarily manifested in areas such as employment, housing, and access to services.
Yes, discrimination can also affect foreigners in Maldives. This varies from job market discrimination where locals might be preferred to racial or religious bias.
While the constitution protects against workplace discrimination, there have been cases of reported incidents in the private sector. These mostly pertain to gender bias and bias against temporary workers or persons of different race or religion.
Yes, individuals who feel they have been discriminated against can seek legal redress in accordance with the laws of Maldives.
No, legal professionals are bound by codes of ethical conduct that forbid the refusal of legitimate legal assistance on discriminatory grounds.
Service providers should not refuse to provide a service to a person based on discriminatory grounds, however, enforcement of this principle may vary.
While the constitution of Maldives does not specifically address sexual orientation or transgender identities as grounds for discrimination, homosexuality is criminalized in the country, which effectively makes sexual orientation a ground for discrimination.
The constitution of Maldives establishes Islam as the state religion and does not allow its citizens the freedom to practice any other religion. Hence, religious discrimination does exist in the country.
No, providing assistance to disadvantaged groups or sections of the community such as women, disabled persons, or the elderly, is not considered discriminatory but a social responsibility.
Generally, discrimination laws provide protection irrespective of the nationality of the person involved, but the enforcement of these laws might vary depending on whether the person is a local or a foreigner.
Individuals seeking further information on discrimination issues in the Maldives can consult with the Human Rights Commission of Maldives. Non-profit organizations such as Transparency Maldives also work to raise awareness about human rights and discrimination issues.
If you believe you have been a victim of discrimination in Maldives, you should consult with a lawyer to understand your legal rights and actions that can be taken. As per the situation, you may also need to document incidents of discrimination and report them to relevant authorities. You should also ensure to maintain all relevant evidences of discrimination to use them in legal proceedings.
