In the Maldives, political parties remain the one of the barriers for better representation in political leadership, yet entrenched patronage, opaque financing, and persistent gender gaps restrict broad-based representation. WFD works with party leaders, women’s wings and male allies to embed inclusive policies, promote cross party collaboration on inclusion, elevate the leadership of women and youth, and develop intra-party democracy from within. Grounded in WFD’s research on the cost of politics, our support encourages party reforms that lower financial barriers and foster a more inclusive, accountable political landscape. 

The People’s Majlis has expanded its legislative remit, but its ability to scrutinise the executive and engage the public still lags behind democratic ambitions. WFD supports parliamentarians, the secretariat and committees to adopt evidence-led inquiry methods, standardise research and clerking practices, and promote public consultation and engagement throughout the law-making process. These efforts strengthen thematic committees—from climate policies to public finance oversight. 

An informed, engaged civic sphere is essential for meaningful accountability. WFD cultivates partnerships between civil society organisations, media, and parliamentary committees, ensuring that expert analysis and community perspectives shape policymaking. Trainings and capacity building efforts equip CSOs and media to understand parliamentary processes and their avenues for engagement, while civil society forums channel grassroots priorities into policy dialogue. Together, these efforts close the gap between institutions and the Maldivian public they serve.