The Maldives National University (MNU) is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all staff and students. The University’s approach to preventing sexual abuse and harassment is guided by the Prevention of Sexual Abuse and Harassment Act (Act No. 16/2014), dated 13 May 2014, which establishes responsibilities for preventing and addressing harassment in workplaces and educational institutions. In alignment with this Act, MNU has established a Committee for the Prevention of Sexual Abuse and Harassment to receive and investigate complaints and implement appropriate measures. Further strengthening its institutional commitment, MNU has recently implemented the Policy on Anti-Sexual Harassment and Abuse (2026), which provides an institutional framework for preventing, addressing, and responding to sexual harassment and abuse, while promoting accountability, safeguarding individuals, and ensuring a safe and supportive university environment.

The Act prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace and educational settings, requires institutions to take preventive measures, and provides mechanisms for submitting complaints. It also protects employees from losing employment opportunities or other workplace rights because they refuse harassment or report incidents. These provisions help promote fairness, accountability, equal treatment, and protection from abuse of power.

Through its implementation of the Act and its institutional complaint-handling mechanisms, MNU supports SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by addressing practices that undermine dignity, safety, and equal participation. These measures help ensure that staff and students can work, study, and participate in university life without sexual harassment or coercion, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive educational community.