MaldivesResearch

a think tank for public policy research

FAQs

What is MaldivesResearch?
We are a not-for-profit company registered in England, conducting its business  independent of government or other organizations. We are the first UK-based think tank dedicated to the Maldives. Our objectives are to contribute to the process of developing public policy in the Maldives, and, in doing so, to contribute to the socio-economic development of the country in turn. We aim to achieve these objectives by:

  • researching into public policy in the Maldives to develop policy ideas; and,
  • disseminating research findings by publication and through events such as conferences, seminars, etc. to foster knowledge

Who are responsible for the governance and management of MaldivesResearch?
The founding members of MaldivesResearch are a group of Maldivian academics based in the Maldives and England.  They are also the Trustees and Officers of the Charity.

How is your budget financed?
The main sources of finance to our budget are voluntary donations, funding for specific projects, and sponsorship.

Why are you based in England?
Being based in England, MaldivesResearch is able to tap into the knowledge databases, such as those provided by think tanks, universities, public libraries, etc.; it also gives us excellent opportunities for networking with other research institutions; and, it makes sense for governance and management purposes since our Trustees and Officers are also based in England.

Why would Maldives need you?
The need for research towards the development of public policy in any country is seen as a necessity. Such research is typically provided by research institutions such as universities or think tanks.

The process of public policy formulation in the Maldives is based on consultation mainly among relevant government departments, with private sector representatives now being increasingly invited to participate in such consultative committees. But discussions are seldom based on research. Some international institutions (e.g. World Bank, IMF) provide limited policy inputs largely through specific projects or as part of their mandatory obligations. However, no such authoritative contributions are available domestically due to the non-existence of public policy research institutions in the country. There has been limited instances in which the preparation of public policy documents were out-sourced.

The absence of research institutions in the Maldives therefore translates as a significant gap in the process of public policy development in the country. It is our belief that our entry into that process as a stakeholder and our contribution to the process will help close that gap. We hope that our initiative will act as a motivating factor to others to also join in the process of shaping public policy in the Maldives.

What are the areas into which you conduct research?
We cover all areas of public policy.

Are you politically independent?
Yes. We are politically independent of all political parties and the Government of the Maldives or those of any other countries.

How can I benefit from MaldivesResearch?
You may have access to research findings that we normally disseminate by publication in hard copy or electronic form. You may also have an opportunity to gain research experience with us, to get your research articles published by us, or to present your findings at one of our events.

How can I contribute to your work?
You may do so mainly in two ways: first, you may join us as a researcher, research assistant or help us in the organization of our events; second, you may make a financial contribution.

To join us as a researcher or research assistant, please send us an email attaching your curriculum vitae, indicating the nature of your interest.

To contribute financially, you may send us a cheque or postal order drawn in favour of MaldivesResearch.  Alternatively, you may wish to deposit the money to our bank account or wire or transfer it by internet banking.

How can I participate in your events?
Announcements will be made on our website.

How can I contact you?
You may contact us either by email (preferred), post or telephone. Our contact details are here.

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