Our approach
UNICEF Maldives' 6x4 Framework of Programme and Advocacy Priorities
The Convention on the Rights of the Child is the foundation for everything we do at UNICEF Maldives. But our work is also guided by:
- A robust programme and advocacy framework
- Game-changing flagship initiatives
- Our network of supporters, especially young people
Programme and advocacy framework
The programmatic and advocacy work at UNICEF in Maldives centres on the office’s 6 X 4 Framework of Programmes and Advocacy Priorities. The framework identifies six priorities and four strategies for change.
1. Sustaining basic services in the face of economic risks
Despite the many benefits, rapid socioeconomic growth in the Maldives has presented a central challenge: How to make sure every child and young person has reliable access to essential and shock-resistant services in a country of 182 inhabited islands. As a result, our work focuses on making sure that progress in Maldives is sustainable in the face of risks – now and for the future.
2. The adolescent challenge, prioritizing children in conflict with the law
UNICEF focuses on providing support so children and young people can grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, achieve the education and skills they need to fulfil their potential and contribute to their communities and country. As part of this goal, we support the full enactment of Maldives’ Child Rights Protection Act and the Juvenile Justice Act, both enacted in 2019.
3. Reimagining public health in the context of noncommunicable diseases and mental health
Healthy lifestyles and nutrition supported by a robust primary health care system are a foundation for the health and mental health for every child. UNICEF Maldives works with partners to: encourage healthy lifestyles; address the high burden of non-communicable diseases, combat all forms of malnutrition; and integrate community-based mental health into general health services; and reduce stigma against people with mental health issues.
4. Climate-resilient services and infrastructure
In the Maldives, extreme climate events, such as heat waves, storms and floods are significant threats to children and young people’s lives and futures. UNICEF advocates for child- and youth- friendly climate policies and action and engages with young people as agents of change to implement programmatic and advocacy priorities focusing on building climate-resilient islands.
5. Early childhood development in the context of challenges faced by parents
Parenting can be a joy, but it can also be hard. Guiding parents and caregivers as they take on the important tasks of health, nutrition, stimulation, learning and protection is one of the many ways UNICEF in Maldives makes sure children can grow, thrive and contribute to their communities.
6. Leave no child behind focusing on children with disabilities
Child rights is for every child – no matter who she is or where he lives. Far too often, children with disabilities are marginalized; their rights are denied. UNICEF in the Maldives is committed to reaching across the boundaries of health, education and protection sectors to make sure that children with disabilities can lead full and fulfilling lives.
Strategies for change
To achieve these programmatic and advocacy priorities, UNICEF in Maldives focuses on four strategies – factors that enable change.
- Convergence: Making connections across sectors and working synergistically
- Integration: Working in partnership with people and institutions to foster impact and sustainability
- Scaling up: Combining innovation with capacity development to reach more children and young people more effectively
- Innovation: Seeking different ways of working and advancements in digital sectors
