Minister Ihusaan admits failure to resolve backlog of labor relations issues two and a half years into current administration
Speaking at a rally held to mark International Workers' Day, Home Minister Ali Ihusaan pledged to provide fair resolutions to the systemic issues within the Labor Relations Authority to ensure the protection of workers' rights. The Minister guaranteed that labor-related laws and regulations would be fully enforced within the current year; however, some critics continue to express concern, alleging that the government has so far failed to take adequate measures to safeguard the rights of the workforce.
Home Minister Ali Ihusaan speaks during a press conference held at the President's Office. | Presidents office
Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan has admitted that the administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has yet to resolve the long-standing issues plaguing labor relations in the Maldives, even as the government approaches the two-and-a-half-year mark.
Speaking at a government rally held to mark International Workers' Day, Minister Ihusaan stated that the current administration is taking the initiative to ensure the protection of workers' rights.
Minister Ihusaan stated that when the current administration took office, the Labour Relations Authority had a significant backlog of cases filed by both employees and employers. He assured that these matters would be investigated with integrity to ensure a just and fair resolution for all parties involved.
When we assumed office, we found a significant backlog of unresolved cases at the Labour Relations Authority, submitted by both employees and employers. These cases concern your fundamental rights. We are committed to addressing these issues with integrity and providing a just resolution during this term. Indeed, the current objective of the Maldivian government is to ensure the establishment of a safe, dignified, and secure working environment that meets the aspirations of the nation's workforce. To achieve this, we will begin the full and rigorous enforcement of all existing labor regulations across the Maldives this year, adhering strictly to the letter of the law. For a long time, May Day in the Maldives has been observed in a spirit of confrontation between workers and the government. However, we are now fostering a new approach—one defined by listening to the voices of workers and working in partnership with them.Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan
Minister Ihusaan noted that many essential measures to uphold workers' rights have been overlooked. He further stated that, to date, the safety, protection, and legal safeguards guaranteed to workers by law have not been effectively enforced.
However, Minister Ihusaan stated that key laws and regulations concerning labor rights will be enforced this year to ensure the protection of workers.
In this regard, Minister Ihusaan stated that the Industrial Relations Act and the Occupational Safety and Health Act will be fully implemented.
Despite Minister Ihusaan’s remarks, this administration has yet to take any meaningful action to protect workers' rights. Furthermore, many workers claim that despite numerous grievances filed with the Labour Relations Authority, their cases have not been properly reviewed, and their rights remain unaddressed.
