False information and misleading narratives pose major challenges to democracy, according to Abdul Raheem Abdullah, the Speaker of the Parliament of the Maldives.
He made the statement during his address at the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland.
In his speech, the Hon. Speaker focused on this year’s theme, “Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation for a More Peaceful and Sustainable Future.” He emphasized the Maldives’ dedication to renewable energy and sustainable development, highlighting the critical role of science and technology in addressing the unique challenges faced by small island nations, particularly in protecting their vulnerable environments.
Abdul Raheem noted that the Maldives faces significant challenges due to climate change. He highlighted the government's initiatives announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at COP28, which include a commitment to deriving 33% of the nation’s electricity from renewable sources within five years and launching a national campaign to plant five million trees.
The Speaker also pointed out the essential role of parliaments in bridging digital divides. He shared that the People’s Majlis was the first parliament to fully transition online during the pandemic and has since established a Standing Committee on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance technological oversight. Furthermore, he mentioned the Maldives’ active investments in artificial intelligence (AI) to improve public services and environmental monitoring, ultimately striving for a fully digitized economy.
Addressing the delicate balance between fostering innovation and implementing necessary regulations, the Speaker stressed the responsibility of parliamentarians to safeguard democracy against the threats posed by disinformation and misinformation. He called for the establishment of ethical frameworks for science, technology, and innovation (STI) that align with the IPU’s Charter, ensuring research is conducted with integrity and respect for human rights.
In concluding his address, the Hon. Speaker expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Palestine, urging an immediate ceasefire and calling for all parties to prioritize peace to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. He also highlighted the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, calling for a halt to hostilities to restore stability and relieve the civilian population’s suffering.
Abdul Raheem’s address at the IPU Assembly reflects the Maldives' commitment to sustainable development while addressing global issues that affect peace and security, emphasizing the importance of responsible governance in navigating the challenges posed by misinformation and environmental crises.
He made the statement during his address at the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland.
In his speech, the Hon. Speaker focused on this year’s theme, “Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation for a More Peaceful and Sustainable Future.” He emphasized the Maldives’ dedication to renewable energy and sustainable development, highlighting the critical role of science and technology in addressing the unique challenges faced by small island nations, particularly in protecting their vulnerable environments.
Abdul Raheem noted that the Maldives faces significant challenges due to climate change. He highlighted the government's initiatives announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at COP28, which include a commitment to deriving 33% of the nation’s electricity from renewable sources within five years and launching a national campaign to plant five million trees.
The Speaker also pointed out the essential role of parliaments in bridging digital divides. He shared that the People’s Majlis was the first parliament to fully transition online during the pandemic and has since established a Standing Committee on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance technological oversight. Furthermore, he mentioned the Maldives’ active investments in artificial intelligence (AI) to improve public services and environmental monitoring, ultimately striving for a fully digitized economy.
Addressing the delicate balance between fostering innovation and implementing necessary regulations, the Speaker stressed the responsibility of parliamentarians to safeguard democracy against the threats posed by disinformation and misinformation. He called for the establishment of ethical frameworks for science, technology, and innovation (STI) that align with the IPU’s Charter, ensuring research is conducted with integrity and respect for human rights.
In concluding his address, the Hon. Speaker expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Palestine, urging an immediate ceasefire and calling for all parties to prioritize peace to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. He also highlighted the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, calling for a halt to hostilities to restore stability and relieve the civilian population’s suffering.
Abdul Raheem’s address at the IPU Assembly reflects the Maldives' commitment to sustainable development while addressing global issues that affect peace and security, emphasizing the importance of responsible governance in navigating the challenges posed by misinformation and environmental crises.
