Launch of First-Ever Electronic Petition System to Strengthen Public Participation in Policymaking

Malé, 8 February 2025: The People's Majlis today launched the country's first-ever Electronic Petition System (E-Petition Portal), marking a historic step towards digitalising parliamentary processes and strengthening democratic participation in the Maldives.

The Portal introduces a fully digital petition process, allowing citizens to submit and track petitions online, with their signatures and submissions being verified through the national digital identification mechanism, eFaas. It minimizes the need for Member sponsorship, expands access for Maldivians living in remote islands and introduces different thresholds with legal triggers in the legislative process.

With this launch, the Maldives joins Pakistan and Thailand as the only countries in the South Asian and Southeast Asian region to have an electronic petitioning system associated with the parliament.

The People's Majlis developed the portal in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Maldives, supported by the Governments of the United Kingdom (UK) and Australia.

"The introduction of the e-petitions system marks a significant milestone in the digitalisation of democratic participation, serving as a vital bridge between citizens and the Parliament," said Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, the Speaker of the People's Majlis.

Lowering Barriers to Participation

The E-Petition initiative builds on a policy paper developed by UNDP and the People's Majlis in 2023, following nationwide consultations with women, youth, and civil society groups. Its objectives include:

• Reducing administrative burdens on the public and simplifying the petition process.

• Expanding access to policymaking by encouraging marginalized groups to actively participate.

• Creating pathways for change by introducing timelines for petition responses and enabling special petitions to be debated in the People's Majlis.

The policy recommendations, introduced by UNDP, have been formally integrated into the Standing Orders of the People's Majlis, which came into force today.

Digitisation for Stronger Democracy

Unlike the traditional analogue petition process, which relied on physical letters and often excluded non-affiliated citizens, the new e-petition system offers a fully digital process-from submission to decision-supported by secure online tracking. Petitioners can now gather signatures and follow progress directly from their smart devices.

This reform aligns the Maldives with international democratic best practices, reflecting UNDP's growing portfolio of policy interventions that consolidate democratic institutions and promote inclusive governance.

A Foundation for Future Digital Innovations

In addition to the e-petition system, the partnership between UNDP and the Majlis has catalyzed a broader institutional shift towards digitalisation and participatory practices. These include:

• The upcoming Digital Public Consultation Portal allowing citizens to provide feedback on proposed Bills

• Exploration of digital enterprise and process planning tools to strengthen parliamentary efficiency.

• Broader consultative processes within the Majlis to ensure reforms are citizen-driven and sustainable.

The E-Petition System will be available for public use following today's launch. It represents one of the most significant reforms in the Majlis' history, offering Maldivians a stronger voice in shaping the policies that affect their lives.

"This is a bold step towards making policymaking more accessible to all Maldivians," said Adnan Cheema, UNDP Resident Representative in the Maldives. "The e-petition system empowers citizens to engage directly with Parliament, strengthening transparency, responsiveness, and public trust in democratic processes."

Support from International Partners

This landmark e-petition system has been made possible through the generous support of the British High Commission with UK International Development from the UK Government, and the Government of Australia, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Both partners have been longstanding advocates of democratic consolidation, inclusive governance, and the strengthening of parliamentary systems worldwide.

The British High Commission, a key donor to this initiative, has provided sustained support to strengthen democratic governance and the rule of law in the Maldives. Through its partnership, the UK has helped advance inclusive participation-particularly for women, youth, and marginalized communities-while supporting the policy, institutional, and digital aspects that underpin the e-petition system.

"The United Kingdom is proud to support the People's Majlis in strengthening democratic participation, together with Australia and UNDP Maldives. Our own experience shows that electronic petitions can be both highly effective and extremely popular, enabling citizens from all walks of life to engage directly with Parliament. I am confident that this new system will broaden participation, deepen transparency, and give Maldivians an accessible and powerful new way to shape national debate," said H. E. Nicholas Low, British High Commissioner to the Maldives.