A multi-disciplinary ILO mission visited the Republic of the Maldives to discuss how the ILO can contribute to the development of labour market institutions and build up the capacity of the tripartite constituents – Government, employers’ and workers’ organizations – in the new member State.

The mission, from 20 to 22 July 2009, was lead by Ms Tine Staermose, Director of the ILO Office in Sri Lanka. The Republic of Maldives became the 183rd member State of the ILO on 15 May 2009 and work in the country is organized via the ILO Colombo office.

During their mission the team met the Hon. Minister of Human Resources, Youth and Sports, Mr. Uz Hassan Latheef and the Vice-President, Hon. Dr. Mohamed Waheed, as well as representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations and other Government officials.

A framework proposal was agreed for 2010. This covers a wide range of work including the development of social dialogue mechanisms and international labour standards, support for the development of efficient employers’ and employees’ organizations, and the training of labour tribunal officers.

The country has been a member of the United Nations since 21 September 1965.