Maldives - AI Readiness Assessment

Overview

The UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment Report for the Maldives was officially launched on July 31, 2025, establishing the Maldives as the first country in South Asia to complete UNESCO's AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM). Developed jointly by UNESCO and the Government of the Maldives through the National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT), this landmark publication evaluates the country's preparedness for ethical AI adoption across multiple dimensions. The assessment was conducted over ten months by a steering committee representing diverse sectors, providing comprehensive insights into governance, infrastructure, talent, and investment readiness.

Definitions

The assessment employs terminology from UNESCO's AI ethics framework. AI Readiness refers to a country's preparedness to develop, deploy, and govern AI systems ethically and effectively. The Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) is UNESCO's standardized framework for evaluating national AI readiness across multiple dimensions. Ethical AI encompasses principles of fairness, transparency, accountability, human rights protection, and social benefit. Inclusive AI emphasizes equitable access and representation across all population segments. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) refers to nations with unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited resources, and climate vulnerability.

Governance and Institutional Framework

The assessment was conducted under the leadership of the National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) within the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology. UNESCO provided the methodological framework and international expertise. A multisector steering committee brought together government ministries, private sector representatives, academic institutions, and civil society organizations. The assessment recommends establishing an independent AI governance body as the primary regulatory authority and creating a multistakeholder advisory council for ongoing policy guidance. Coordination with the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade ensures alignment with economic objectives.

Key Focus Areas

• AI Governance: Establishing institutional frameworks and regulatory mechanisms for AI oversight.
• Inclusive Oversight: Creating multistakeholder governance structures ensuring diverse participation.
• Talent Development: Building national AI capabilities through education and training programs.
• Knowledge Infrastructure: Developing data resources and research capabilities.
• Accessibility: Ensuring AI technologies and benefits reach all population segments.
• Social Equity: Addressing digital divides and ensuring fair AI outcomes.
• Investment Ecosystem: Creating enabling conditions for AI investment.
• Dhivehi Language AI: Digitizing content and datasets in the national language.
• Cultural Preservation: Integrating cultural heritage considerations into AI development.
• SIDS Considerations: Addressing unique challenges of small island developing states.

Implementation Framework

Implementation follows a structured approach with clear priorities. Immediate actions include finalizing the AI Masterplan 2025-2035 based on assessment findings. Short-term priorities focus on establishing governance structures and launching education initiatives. Medium-term goals address infrastructure development and Dhivehi language digitization. Long-term objectives target comprehensive AI ecosystem maturation. The NCIT coordinates implementation across government agencies. International partnerships, particularly with UNESCO, provide ongoing technical assistance. Resource mobilization engages both public funding and private investment. Regular progress reviews ensure alignment with strategic objectives and enable adaptive management.

Monitoring and Evaluation

The assessment establishes baseline indicators for tracking AI readiness progress. UNESCO's RAM framework provides standardized metrics for international comparison. Annual reviews will assess advancement against the five strategic focus areas. The UNESCO Global AI Ethics Observatory enables ongoing international benchmarking. Stakeholder feedback mechanisms gather input from government, industry, academia, and civil society. Progress reports will be published to maintain transparency and accountability. The assessment recommends establishing national AI indicators aligned with international standards.

Penalties, Liability, and Appeals

As an assessment and policy guidance document, the report does not establish direct enforcement mechanisms or penalties. However, it recommends that forthcoming AI legislation include clear liability frameworks for AI-related harms, penalties for violations of ethical AI standards, and accessible appeal mechanisms for affected individuals. The existing ICT Act 2017 and Data Protection Act 2017 provide interim enforcement frameworks for digital and data-related violations. The proposed independent AI governance body will have authority to investigate complaints and enforce compliance once established.

Relationship to Other Instruments

The assessment directly informs the development of the National AI Masterplan 2025-2035. It builds upon the foundation established by the ICT Act 2017 and Data Protection Act 2017. The draft Privacy and Personal Data Protection Bill will strengthen data governance for AI systems. The assessment aligns with UNESCO's 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of AI, providing the ethical framework. Regional initiatives with other South Asian countries enable knowledge sharing and coordination. The assessment recommendations inform future AI-specific legislation development.

International Alignment

The assessment is explicitly grounded in UNESCO's 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, endorsed by 193 member states. The Maldives is the first South Asian country to complete the RAM assessment, demonstrating regional leadership. The assessment addresses OECD AI Principles on transparency, accountability, and human-centered values. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) considerations shape unique aspects of the recommendations. UNESCO provides ongoing support through the Global AI Ethics Observatory. The assessment positions the Maldives for participation in emerging international AI governance frameworks.

Implementation Timeline

Sources and References