The Maldives, the evolution of a democracy

Source: This post has been created based on the article “The Maldives, the evolution of a democracy” published in The Hindu on 11^th October 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 International Relations — India and its neighborhood- relations

News: This article discusses the recent Maldives election results. It also highlights its consequences on India-Maldives relations and offers solutions to tackle those challenges.

What is the history of democracy in Maldives?

A multiparty democracy under a new constitution began in Maldives in 2008.

Abdulla Yameen, the pro-China president, served his full term (2013–18).

He was followed by Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the architect of ‘India First’ policy, who served from 2018 till 2023.

Following his defeat, he will hand over the presidency to Mohamed Muizzu, the opposition candidate.

What lies ahead for the new administration?

In external relations, it will have at least three choices: revert to the ‘India Out’ campaign of former President Yameen; continue the ‘India First’ policy of the outgoing President; or balance relations with its key partners, especially China and India.

What are the changed dynamics in front of the new government with respect to India?

1) The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which Maldives had accepted under his leadership, is in serious trouble.

2) India’s steady help to Sri Lanka during the Sri Lankan financial crisis.

3) The Islamic constituency will note the changed equations between India and the Gulf States.

4) The waning of a bankrupt Pakistan, which has long nurtured extremism in the Maldives.

What are the conditions in favour of India?

The next phase of regional diplomacy may be complex but its past achievements offer hope.

At the people’s level, a positive mindset prevails towards India. This is due to extensive development work and numerous small community development projects, such as community centres, parks, and ferries between islands.

Maldivian youth have been to India for training and capacity-building programmes in the past.

India is a major source of tourism, imports and investment.

It is also the first responder every time an emergency strikes the Maldives.

What more should be done?

First, the Colombo Security Conclave (comprising India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Mauritius, Bangladesh and the Seychelles) should be strengthened in terms of maritime security and Blue Economy.

Second, India should invite Maldives as an observer at the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

Finally, there is need for India’s strategic community and media organizations to take a greater interest in the vital neighbour, building bridges of mutual understanding and trust.