Maldives - National AI Masterplan

Overview

The Maldives National AI Masterplan 2025-2035 is a comprehensive strategic framework announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on October 16, 2024. The masterplan is being developed by the National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) under the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology. It aims to harness AI for economic growth while managing risks and establishing a legal framework for AI regulation. The Maldives became the first South Asian country to complete UNESCO's AI Readiness Assessment, positioning it as a regional leader in ethical AI implementation. The masterplan addresses the unique challenges of small island developing states while aligning with international standards.

Definitions

The masterplan adopts terminology consistent with UNESCO's AI ethics framework. Artificial Intelligence encompasses systems that can perform tasks requiring human-like intelligence, including machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. AI Governance refers to the institutional structures, policies, and procedures for overseeing AI development and deployment. Ethical AI emphasizes fairness, transparency, accountability, and human-centric design principles. The masterplan also addresses Dhivehi language AI, referring to AI systems trained on and capable of processing the Maldivian language. Inclusive AI refers to systems designed to serve all segments of society equitably.

Governance and Institutional Framework

The National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) leads the masterplan's development under the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology. The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade collaborates on economic aspects. A proposed independent AI governance body will serve as the primary regulatory authority once established. A multistakeholder advisory council will provide inclusive policy guidance, bringing together government, industry, academia, and civil society. The masterplan calls for clear institutional responsibilities across ministries, with coordination mechanisms to ensure coherent implementation. Regional cooperation through UNESCO supports knowledge exchange and capacity building.

Key Focus Areas

• AI Governance Framework: Establishing institutional structures for AI oversight and regulation.
• Risk Management: Developing frameworks to identify, assess, and mitigate AI-related risks.
• Legal Framework Development: Creating comprehensive legislation to regulate AI technology.
• Talent Development: Launching national AI education and training programs.
• Digital Infrastructure: Building the technical foundation for AI deployment.
• Dhivehi Language AI: Digitizing Dhivehi content and datasets for inclusive AI.
• Economic Integration: Leveraging AI for tourism, fisheries, and other key sectors.
• Social Equity: Ensuring AI benefits reach all segments of society.
• Investment Ecosystem: Strengthening the environment for AI investment.
• International Cooperation: Aligning with global AI ethics standards.

Implementation Framework

Implementation proceeds through phased development with clear milestones. The initial phase focuses on completing the masterplan documentation and obtaining cabinet approval. The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology coordinates with the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade to prepare comprehensive implementation plans. Pilot projects will demonstrate AI applications in priority sectors including tourism, fisheries, and public services. Capacity building initiatives will train government officials and private sector professionals. The NCIT will establish technical standards and guidelines for AI development. Regular stakeholder consultations ensure inclusive implementation. Resource allocation will prioritize foundational infrastructure and human capital development. International partnerships, particularly with UNESCO, provide technical assistance and knowledge transfer.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Progress monitoring follows the framework established through the UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment. Key performance indicators track advancement across governance, talent, infrastructure, and adoption dimensions. Annual reviews assess implementation progress against masterplan objectives. The proposed AI governance body will oversee compliance and effectiveness evaluation. Stakeholder feedback mechanisms enable continuous improvement. International benchmarking compares Maldives progress with regional and global standards. The UNESCO AI Ethics Observatory provides external validation and knowledge exchange. Transparent reporting keeps the public informed of achievements and challenges.

Penalties, Liability, and Appeals

As a strategic framework in draft stage, the masterplan does not currently establish specific penalties or enforcement mechanisms. The proposed legal framework component will address liability for AI-related harms, compliance requirements for AI developers and deployers, and penalty structures for violations. The masterplan recommends establishing clear appeal mechanisms for AI-related decisions affecting individuals. Existing laws including the Data Protection Act 2017 and ICT Act 2017 provide interim enforcement frameworks. The independent AI governance body, once established, will have authority to investigate complaints and enforce compliance.

Relationship to Other Instruments

The masterplan builds upon the ICT Act 2017, which provides the foundation for digital governance in the Maldives. The Data Protection Act 2017 establishes principles for personal data handling that apply to AI systems. The draft Privacy and Personal Data Protection Bill will strengthen data governance when enacted. The masterplan aligns with the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI (2021), endorsed by 193 countries. Regional initiatives and bilateral cooperation agreements support cross-border AI governance. The National Development Plan provides broader strategic context for AI-driven economic growth.

International Alignment

The Maldives masterplan explicitly aligns with UNESCO's 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. As the first South Asian country to complete the UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment, the Maldives demonstrates commitment to international standards. The masterplan addresses OECD AI Principles on transparency, accountability, and human-centric values. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) considerations shape unique aspects of the framework. Regional cooperation with South Asian neighbors enables shared learning. The masterplan positions the Maldives for participation in emerging global AI governance mechanisms. Dhivehi language preservation aligns with UNESCO cultural heritage objectives.

Implementation Timeline

Sources and References