President Yameen said that women cannot be empowered just because there are laws, but also the government needs to have the will to do that. Speaking about the subject, he said that Maldives is an exemplary country in empowering women.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Women’s Forum organized by the First Lady the President said that in India the law mandates state owned companies to have women on the board of the company. He said that even though there is no such law in the Maldives, the aim of the government is to reserve 40 percent of the board to women.
President Yameen said that various countries have signed statements condemning violence against women and charters calling for equal opportunities. He said that however, still these problems have not been solved. He said that there are laws to prevent domestic abuse, but it doesn’t stop either.
President also said that opportunities for women in politics is less but there are women who have been in power for a long time. He highlighted German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Shaikh Hasina.
President said that the government is working to provide equal opportunities for women. He talked about the arts and craft fair of women and the recent Bashi Ball Championship. “The purpose of these activities is to show that women have the opportunity to go forward in various fields” said the president.
President asked the participants of the forum to raise voice regarding matters of national interest. He said that social work is a national service and encouraged them to do such work.
Maldives is exemplary in empowering women : President Yameen
