First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed has called for urgent reform of the Maldives’ juvenile justice system, urging a shift from punitive measures to child protection and early intervention. Speaking at the National Juvenile Justice Conference 2025, she stressed the need to address the root causes of youth crime.
She highlighted that many young offenders are victims long before entering the justice system. Citing real cases, she described a 14-year-old boy arrested for murder who had 191 prior interactions with authorities, and a 15-year-old girl, prosecuted despite being a long-term victim of sexual abuse, later exonerated after public and international pressure.
These cases, she said, reflect systemic failures in child protection and early response. She called on schools, parents, and justice institutions to recognise warning signs and intervene early.
The First Lady also raised concerns about the Maldives’ high incarceration rate compared to neighbouring countries, despite lower levels of violent crime. She noted that youth crime and intergenerational trauma persist despite years of investment and policy development.
Urging a shift in mindset, she emphasised the importance of family involvement, particularly by fathers, and stronger coordination among institutions. She challenged stakeholders to close the gaps that allow children to fall through the cracks and abusers to escape accountability.
Her call was met with broad support from educators, legal professionals, and social service leaders, who echoed the need for a justice system that protects, rehabilitates, and empowers children.