The Maldives has called for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations system, including a dedicated rotating seat for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on the UN Security Council and the appointment of a woman as Secretary-General.

Addressing the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef said the Security Council must be reformed to better reflect the realities of the modern world and give smaller states a greater role in global decision-making.

“The Security Council cannot reflect the world of 1945 while deciding for the world of today,” the Vice President said.

He called for the Council to be expanded in both permanent and non-permanent categories, with greater representation for Africa and a rotating seat for SIDS.

The Maldives also called for the abolition of the veto currently held by the five permanent members of the Security Council.

Linking Security Council reform to broader questions of equality and representation, Vice President Latheef said small states should have a direct role in decisions affecting the international system.

“Small States must be decision-makers, not decision-takers,” he said.

The Vice President also highlighted the need for greater representation of women in global leadership, including support for a woman to serve as UN Secretary-General.

He said international institutions must evolve to reflect the diversity of the countries and people they serve, while stressing that international law should be applied equally to all states.

The Maldives is due to serve on the UN Economic and Social Council for the 2027–2029 term and is seeking election to the Human Rights Council for 2028–2030. The country is also seeking a seat on the Security Council for the 2033–2034 term.