The policy challenges we work on don't exist in isolation. Livable cities, strong social fabric, protection of rights, and capable institutions are all mutually reinforcing. Our work cuts across all four clusters — often finding that the most impactful solutions address multiple areas at once.
Maldivian cities — particularly Malé — face acute pressures from rapid urbanisation, overcrowding, and the absence of public space. We advocate for planning and policy that makes cities more livable, connected, and human-centred.
Policies and planning approaches that make urban environments healthier, safer, and more enjoyable places to live.
Advocacy for public transport, active mobility, and the reduction of private vehicle dependency in dense urban areas.
The development of public gathering places — parks, libraries, community centres, arts venues — as essential social infrastructure.
Cultural policy that embeds arts, events, and creative spaces into the fabric of city life, making cities more vibrant and attractive.
Research and advocacy on how street space is used — parking ratios, pedestrian access, greenery — and what better allocation could look like.
Policies that support livability and economic opportunity outside of Malé, reducing overcrowding through meaningful regional investment.
The Maldives has a large migrant workforce and faces ongoing challenges around labour exploitation, wage theft, and the wellbeing of vulnerable populations. We advocate for policies that protect rights and promote genuine human flourishing.
Policy protections for migrant workers — particularly in the construction and tourism sectors — against exploitation, wage theft, and dangerous conditions.
Enforcement mechanisms and policy frameworks that ensure workers — local and migrant — are paid fairly and on time.
Policy approaches that treat mental health as a public health priority, including access to services, reducing stigma, and addressing structural causes of distress.
Policies that protect children from harm and ensure that gender is not a barrier to safety, opportunity, or participation.
Regulation and enforcement of workplace safety standards, particularly in high-risk industries like construction and fishing.
Good policy outcomes require capable institutions. We work on the systems, tools, and people that determine whether government can actually deliver — from data infrastructure to workforce development to electoral integrity.
Systems, processes, and management tools that allow government agencies to deliver services better, faster, and with less waste.
Frameworks for how government collects, manages, and uses data — including open data, interoperability, and evidence-based policymaking infrastructure.
Building M&E culture and systems in government — so that policy and programme outcomes are tracked, reported on, and used to improve.
Training, mentorship, and career development for the next generation of policymakers — the people who will design and implement tomorrow's reforms.
Research and advocacy for fairer, more transparent electoral processes and stronger democratic institutions.
Practical guidance on how government agencies and policy institutions can responsibly adopt AI tools to work more effectively.
Whether you want to collaborate on research, commission a project, fund our work, or just start a conversation — we'd love to hear from you.
Social Policy & Human Capital
Strong societies are built on strong people. We work on the policies that determine whether people can access education, build healthy relationships, participate in civic life, and develop the skills and knowledge needed for a changing economy.
Social policy, rights & public welfare
The design and delivery of social protection systems, welfare programmes, and rights frameworks that leave no one behind.
Social fabric & civic responsibility
Policies and initiatives that strengthen community ties, trust, and the sense of shared responsibility that holds societies together.
Quality education & human capital
Education policy focused on genuine learning outcomes — particularly foundational skills like numeracy and literacy — and the development of capable, productive citizens.
Family policy
Policies that support stable families and healthy relationships, including child protection, gender equality in family structures, and support systems for caregivers.
Senior wellbeing & intergenerational connection
Social infrastructure and policy for an ageing population, including housing design, community programming, and intergenerational engagement.
Knowledge access & libraries
Public libraries and knowledge infrastructure as essential social services, including national library networks and digital access.