COMMITTEE ON THE ELIMINATION OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION 55th session 2-27 August 1999
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 9 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Maldives
314. At its 1343rd meeting, on 9 August 1999 (see CERD/C/SR.1343), the Committee reviewed the implementation of the Convention by Maldives on the basis of its previous report (CERD/C/203/Add.1) and its consideration by the Committee (see CERD/C/SR.944 and 950). The Committee noted with regret that no report had been submitted to the Committee since 1992.
315. The Committee also regretted that Maldives had not responded to its invitation to participate in the meeting and to furnish relevant information. The Committee decided that a communication should be sent to the Government of Maldives setting out its reporting obligations under the Convention and urging that the dialogue with the Committee should be resumed as soon as possible.
316. The Committee is aware that a new Constitution came into effect on 1 January 1998, containing provisions for the protection of certain civil and political as well as economic, social and cultural rights. The Committee is interested in receiving the relevant information from the State party, particularly with respect to any guarantees of equality and protection against racial discrimination.
317. The Committee appreciates the efforts of the State party in the field of education, with a literacy level accounting for 93.2 per cent, making the Maldives one of the leading countries in Asia in this respect.
318. The Committee requests further information in connection with the statements to be found in paragraph 1 of the fourth periodic report (CERD/C/203/Add.1) to the effect that "no form of racial discrimination exists in the Maldives based on race or any other differences among the population", and that "therefore, no specific legislation is required to implement the provisions of the Convention".
319. The Committee also requests further information from the State party on the situation of the migrant workers and foreigners and, in particular, whether they enjoy the protection of the Convention.
320. The Committee suggests that the Government of Maldives avail itself of the technical assistance offered by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, with the aim of drawing up and submitting a report without any delay, drafted in accordance with the reporting guidelines.
