Every year, many couples choose the Maldives for their honeymoon. Known for its picturesque beaches and clear waters, this island nation in the Indian Ocean is a popular destination for newlyweds. However, beneath this idyllic image lies a pressing issue: a water crisis exacerbated by climate change.
Tourism significantly contributes to over 20% of the Maldives’ GDP and continues to grow. President Mohamed Muizzu recently promoted the “Visit Maldives” campaign in the United Kingdom. Despite this growth, the country faces an existential threat from climate change.
The Maldives consists of 1,192 islands and 26 atolls, making it the world’s lowest-lying country. Most islands are less than half a meter above sea level. Scientists warn that parts of the archipelago could become uninhabitable by 2050 due to rising sea levels.
A more immediate concern is access to clean water. Climate change has led to saline intrusion, rising sea levels, and droughts that strain freshwater sources like groundwater and rainwater. While resort islands and urban centers have desalination facilities and imported bottled water, remote islands struggle with shortages as rainwater tanks dry up and groundwater becomes saline.
The country’s tourism model relies on a “one island, one resort” policy since 1978, offering exclusivity but disconnecting tourists from local issues such as water scarcity on non-resort islands.
A Human Rights Watch report highlighted challenges faced by Kanditheem and Nolhivaranfaru islands despite government efforts supported by climate funding. Integrated Water Resource Management systems were introduced but suffered from poor consultation with communities, inadequate monitoring, and high water bills. Islanders reported continued reliance on contaminated groundwater due to project delays.
In Kanditheem, farmers expressed concerns about salinity affecting irrigation costs and livelihoods. The outer islands experience higher poverty rates compared to populated areas like Malé and Addu City.
The international community’s support is crucial for addressing these challenges under obligations set by the Paris Agreement. High-income countries should help create conditions for small nations like the Maldives to fund climate adaptation measures effectively.
The Maldivian government must ensure equitable access to water while addressing systemic issues causing disparities in resource distribution among its citizens.
