Street violence in the Maldives – what’s the broader picture?

Did you know Male’ means blood bank in Divehi? This is a striking insight with consideration to the sudden rise in street violence over recent years.

However, apart from information the tragic deaths or type of injuries sustained by victims or the government response to send military out onto the streets, few seem to have considered the broader causes and issues.

Such causes, which may not be immediately apparent, include the housing crisis as lack of space in homes means young people are forced to roam the streets.

Lack of social dialogue is another possible cause. Difficulty in talking about personal issues (such as drugs or sexual relationships) among families may explain why feelings of anger, depression or loneliness often develop and these then manifest themselves in fights on the streets.

So, what do you think are the underlying causes of street violence? Do you think addressing the housing crisis in Male’ would make a difference? Is it true Maldivians rarely talk about sensitive issues? And, do you think a non-militant, non-confrontational approach with consideration to the broader picture would be the most effective to combat street violence in the Maldives?

Please post your thoughts, I look forward to seeing the dialogue develop…

Street violence - diversion tactic?

There is escalating fear among the Maldivian population as street violence in the capital city appears to have gone out of control. In response the government has decided to send out onto the streets men in uniform from the National Defense Force. Some claim these gangs are politically fuelled and this is a clever diversion tactic of the Maldivian government.

Whilst people fear for their families’ safety they are distracted from the crucial debates going on in Parliament. As decisions on the crucial transitional chapter are decided upon people are understandably thinking only about the personal security of themselves and their families amid the rising number of murders, attacks and street battles.

The current climate brings into question whether the forthcoming elections will be free, fair and violence-free. Furthermore, it calls for people to return attention to the Majilis, where decisions can be made so that a safer society can be ensured in the future.

What are your thoughts on this issue? Who is responsible for the violence on the streets in the Maldives? How are people feeling about their personal security in their homes and on the streets? And, what can be done to raise awareness about the importance of the decisions that are being made in Parliament, so that people understand that these decisions will make a difference to their future lives in the Maldives?

WIN FOR NGO’s: AMENDMENTS TO CIVIL SERVICE ACT NOT ACCEPTED BY MPS

The work of NGOs to activate public concern has really made a difference. The proposed amendments to the Civil Service Act failed to go through in Parliament.

This is a time for celebration as this is a real triumph for civil society and shows the power of NGO action.

Do you have any comments to congratulate those who were involved in the campaign? What do you think should be the next campaign? And, how do you think more people should get involved in such crucial issues in future?