Maldives wins first-ever seat on key UN economic council
Island nation says new role will strengthen advocacy on climate change, economic resilience and developing country priorities
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldives has secured its first-ever seat on the United Nations Economic and Social Council, marking a diplomatic milestone for the Indian Ocean nation as it seeks a larger global role on climate policy and development issues.
The Maldives was elected to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the 2027–2029 term during voting at the United Nations headquarters, securing 183 votes and winning one of three seats allocated to Asia-Pacific countries.
The council is one of the United Nations’ six principal bodies and plays a central role in coordinating global discussions on economic development, social policy, financing, poverty reduction and implementation of international development goals.
For the Maldives, which joined the United Nations in 1965, this marks the first time the country has won a seat on ECOSOC.
Maldivian officials described the result as recognition of decades of advocacy on issues affecting small island nations, particularly climate change, rising sea levels and economic vulnerability.
President Mohamed Muizzu called the election a historic moment and said the new position would allow the Maldives to more effectively represent interests of vulnerable nations facing growing environmental and economic pressures.
As a small island developing state, Maldives has long argued that countries most exposed to climate risks often have limited influence over global financial and policy decisions despite facing disproportionate consequences from warming temperatures and rising oceans.
Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam said the outcome reflected international confidence in the country’s foreign policy and its longstanding engagement on sustainable development and climate issues.
Officials also said the new role would provide additional opportunities to advocate for financing mechanisms, international partnerships and policies aimed at improving resilience among developing countries.
The Maldives’ three-year term on the council will begin on Jan. 1, 2027.
Alongside the Maldives, Malaysia and South Korea also secured Asia-Pacific seats during the election.
ECOSOC is responsible for coordinating large parts of the UN system’s work on economic and social issues and oversees implementation efforts related to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
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