Maldives plans ‘Hope Island’ for at-risk children
Government outlines youth crime prevention model combining education, therapy and structured reintegration as construction begins in 2026
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldivian government is moving to create a dedicated, long-term rehabilitation system for children exposed to criminal environments, as part of a broader strategy to curb juvenile delinquency and intervene before at-risk youth enter the justice system.
The initiative is designed to provide structured care, education and psychosocial support to children assessed as being at high risk of committing crimes. Officials say the model focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment, combining basic schooling, religious instruction, therapy programs and supervised physical activities aimed at behavioral correction and social reintegration.
Children admitted to the program are expected to remain in care until they turn 18. Following completion of rehabilitation, participants will be required to serve a designated period with either the Maldives Police Service or the Maldivian National Defence Force, a condition authorities describe as part of their structured transition into disciplined public service roles.
To implement this approach, the government plans to construct a large-scale facility known as “Hope Island,” with construction scheduled to begin in January 2026. The project will be developed on 15 hectares of reclaimed land at Uthuru Thilafalhu, after the site was relocated from an earlier plan in Dhaalu Atoll’s Vaani area.
Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan said the facility would operate as a long-term care institution within the children’s justice system and accommodate up to 700 people, including residents and staff.
Plans for the complex include specialized residential units, education and vocational training spaces, sports facilities, a health center, family visitation areas, ceremonial spaces and a mosque with a capacity of 700 worshippers.
Financing for the project will follow a cross-subsidy model, with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment involved in discussions with an interested private party. Officials have not yet disclosed the total cost of development.
Authorities say the project responds to a growing need for centralized rehabilitation capacity. More than 160 children are currently enrolled in various state-run care and intervention programs, according to government figures.
Analysts note that Hope Island reflects a policy shift toward early intervention and institutional rehabilitation as Maldives grapples with youth vulnerability in densely populated urban areas.
The government has framed the project as a cornerstone of its long-term crime prevention strategy, linking social rehabilitation with national security and workforce development goals.
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