Thirty-five women from the northern atolls of the Maldives successfully completed the pilot programme of the Isvaaru – Women in Local Governance programme in Kulhudhuffushi City, implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Local Government Authority (LGA), Maldives Institute of Local Governance (MILG), and Kulhudhuffushi City Council, and supported by the Government of UK, to strengthen women's leadership and promote inclusive, gender-responsive governance at the local level in the Maldives.

During the seven-day training, held from April 24-30, 2025, aspiring women leaders from Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, and Noonu Atolls engaged in comprehensive learning on key areas: effective community mobilization strategies, community consultation skills, participatory governance mechanisms, gender equality in leadership positions, disability inclusion in governance, campaign strategizing and communication, and decentralization frameworks and principles.

The programme's design combined foundational knowledge in local governance and civic education with hands-on learning experiences, drawing inspiration from UNDP Maldives’ Practice Parliament and Judiciary for Juniors series. Participants engaged in field visits to councils, mock townhall validation sessions, and community consultations to build practical skills in governance and leadership. The programme’s experiential approach was informed by the findings of the "2024 Assessment on Gender Dynamics in Local Governance", which highlighted the need for capacity-building initiatives that address systemic barriers to women’s political participation.

“Throughout the programme, we were equipped with the knowledge and skillset needed to run for public office with well-thought-out strategies, through a range of engaging sessions and interactive activities. We learned to think critically from different perspectives, such as inclusivity and gender equality, and to apply effective techniques when devising policies. It has been an incredible opportunity to learn and grow alongside so many inspiring women,” said Nahuza Hassan, a participant from Kulhudhuffushi City.

“Local councils being closest to the people, offers the perfect platform for women to lead. When we intentionally cultivate an environment where women's leadership is visible and celebrated at the local level, we are not only investing in the leadership of local communities but also in the leadership of our nation as a whole," said Shammoon Adam, Director General of the Local Government Authority.

“It is a great honour for Kulhudhuffushi City Council to host the ‘Isvaaru 2025’ in partnership with UNDP and LGA. This initiative is a powerful movement to uplift and empower women into leadership roles within local governance. Welcoming so many inspiring and committed women from across the northern atolls to our city has truly been a privilege. As the saying goes, “To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.” Isvaaru embodies that spirit; encouraging bold steps, new thinking, and inclusive leadership," said Mohamed Athif, Mayor of Kulhudhuffushi City Council.

Throughout the week, participants developed a tailored mock community development plan for Kulhudhuffushi City, andCity and crafted individual one-year political action plans to guide their future engagement in public life. Additional sessions on media engagement and public speaking strengthened their communication and advocacy skills, building both technical capacity and leadership confidence.

“We still have a long way to go on the road to meaningful representation of women in leadership. UNDP remains steadfast in our commitment as a partner on this journey.  Women's voices and perspectives are vital to strong and inclusive local governance. We hope that the knowledge and connections forged here continue on with pride and purpose," said Yasmin Rasheed, Assistant Resident Representative, Governance, UNDP Maldives.

Isvaaru programme, was made possible with the generous support of the Government of the United Kingdom, whose steadfast partnership has been instrumental in advancing women’s leadership and fostering inclusive, gender-responsive governance at the local level in the Maldives. The programme forms part of UNDP Maldives’ broader commitment to promoting gender equality, inclusive governance, and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). As participants return to their communities, they carry forward new skills, plans, and networks - strengthening the foundation for more representative and inclusive local leadership in their communities.