Unlocking the Path to a Happier Maldives: Challenges and Aspirations

Have you ever wondered what it's like to live in the happiest country in the world? How does a nation achieve this among hundreds of countries across the globe? Finland, a nation with a population of approximately 5.5 million, stands tall among the world's top-ranking countries in terms of low corruption, social progressiveness, and overall fairness. Moreover, it consistently secures its place as one of the most stable, safest, and best-governed nations on Earth. The secret to Finland's happiness primarily lies in its approach to governance.

Now, let us turn our gaze to the Maldives. Are we Maldivians truly content, or do we find ourselves frustrated by the lack of basic amenities beyond the city limits, with urban living seemingly reserved for the wealthy and landlords? The power to change this lies in the hands of our elected government. However, elections often witness the affluent lavishing resources to sway voters, while the electorate becomes entrapped in the web of party politics. Families engage in heated debates and severed relationships over allegiance to a political party when the real conversation should center on which candidate can genuinely benefit their constituency and the nation.

I once humorously remarked to my family that, upon returning to the Maldives, I would venture into politics and run for parliament. My reasoning behind this jest is rooted in a firm belief that, despite our nation's small size and limited resources, we possess a robust economy, a high literacy rate, and a wealth of educated individuals. Our potential for greater heights is undeniable. The key to unlocking this potential lies in eradicating corruption, empowering those who work for the collective good, and electing a government that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens, rather than catering to a select group or a few favored islands. We need young, educated, and morally driven individuals to steer our country toward positive change.

A closer examination of the legislative body, 'Dhivehi Rayyithunge Majilis,' reveals a lack of stringent qualifications for a parliamentary seat. Any Maldivian citizen of sound mind, aged 18 or above, practicing Sunni Islam, can vie for a seat in parliament. Meanwhile, lower-ranking positions, such as administrative officers at colleges, demand a minimum O'level certificate. It is imperative that those responsible for governing our nation possess a commensurate level of education and the ability to effect meaningful legal reforms for the betterment of our country and its people.

We have witnessed past presidents, parliament members, ministers, and other high-ranking officials engage in blatant corruption, yet many steadfastly support them, often blinded by unwavering party loyalty. Time, however, is not on our side. It is imperative that we set aside political differences and focus on the bigger picture.

Our nation's economy relies heavily on tourism and fishing, leaving us vulnerable when these sectors face crises, such as the recent pandemic. Rather than over-reliance on a few industries, we should diversify our economic resources. Exploring possibilities like agricultural self-sufficiency can reduce our dependence on imported essentials and open doors for exports.

While we engage in matters of lesser consequence, profound challenges loom, notably the imminent impact of climate change on our homeland. As the world's lowest-lying country, we are exceptionally susceptible to sea-level rise. We implore our government to confront this reality, collaborate with experts, and devise strategies to mitigate the inevitable repercussions.

Our parents and grandparents may not have had the privilege of the exposure and education we enjoy. Hence, it falls upon us to educate and guide them on these pressing issues. We must break free from the cycle of the powerful and wealthy ruling our nation, filling their coffers, and elevating their lifestyles while the average citizen struggles. While I acknowledge the presence of honorable politicians, the status quo has persisted for too long. What we truly need are not more futsal grounds on our islands, but rather, access to proper medical facilities and alternatives to 'Greater Male' for a decent life.

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