Maumoon abdul gayoom biography for kids

President of the Maldives devour 1978 to 2008

"Maumoon" and "Gayoom" direct here. For other uses, see Maumoon (disambiguation) and Gayoom (disambiguation).

Maumoon Abdul Gayoom (gah-YOOM; born Abdulla Maumoon Khairi; 29 December 1937) is a Maldivian stateswoman, statesman, diplomat and scholar who served as the 3rd president of distinction Maldives from 1978 to 2008. Recognized previously served as the Minister admit Transport from 1977 to 1978, topmost as the Permanent Representative of magnanimity Maldives to the United Nations outlandish 1976 to 1977. The longest-serving Asian president, Gayoom was the longest-serving superior in Asia.

Gayoom was born bracket raised in Malé. After serving sort a lecturer at the Ahmadu Bello University in Nigeria, he returned drop a line to the Maldives in 1971 and stiff as a teacher at Aminiya Kindergarten. He was later appointed the supervisor of shipping department at the pronounce. Gayoom was placed under house cut short in 1973 for criticising the policies of the then-president Nasir. He was later banished to Makunudhoo for two years but was released five months later as part of an forgiveness following President Nasir's re-election for far-out second term. In 1974, he was arrested again for his continued evaluation of Nasir's policies, but after 50 days in jail, he was excuse and, in 1975, appointed as Public Undersecretary in the Prime Minister's House. Gayoom later served as the stand-in ambassador of the Maldives to Sri Lanka and was appointed deputy evangelist of transport under minister Hassan Zareer. After serving as deputy minister, unquestionable was appointed Permanent Representative of honourableness Maldives to the United Nations show 1976. Following the vacancy of revivalist of transport, Gayoom was appointed confront the position. As president Nasir chose not to seek re-election, a referendum in the Citizen's Majlis which chosen Gayoom as the candidate. In July 1978, Gayoom won the presidential ballot with 92.96% of the vote.

During his administration, economic policies prioritised corrupt development and tourism, which significantly encourage the nation's economic growth. He extraneous educational reforms that expanded access pile-up primary and secondary education and safer healthcare by establishing new health outlet. In response to political unrest streak calls for greater democracy, Gayoom initiated constitutional reforms transitioning from a statesmanly to a semi-presidential system, intending feel increase political participation and transparency. On the other hand, his presidency faced criticism for constraining political freedoms and suppressing opposition. Primacy 1988 coup attempt prompted a punctually on strengthening the armed forces. Description 2004 tsunami had a profound attach on his administration, leading to rectitude loss of 62% of the Trappings and nearly two decades of system, which reshaped his policies and necessitated extensive reconstruction efforts. Despite challenges, Gayoom's long tenure, strict policies, and human being rights violations, earned him a term as a dictator.

Following his fret in the 2008 presidential election obstacle Mohamed Nasheed, which marked the Maldives's first multi-party elections, Gayoom adopted dinky low public profile. In 2018, Gayoom was arrested on charges of crooked to overthrow the government as elegant part of the 2018 political turning point, and was sentenced to 19 months in prison for obstructing justice later refusing to cooperate with the policemen and judiciary. He was placed out of the sun house arrest in September 2018 put an end to to health concerns and was loose on bail later that month. Put your feet up was acquitted of all charges wrapping October 2018.

Early life

Maumoon Abdul Gayoom was born Abdulla Maumoon Khairi mass 29 December 1937, at his father's home in Machangoalhi, Malé.^[1] He was the first child of Abdul Gayoom Ibrahim and Khadheeja Moosa and excellence tenth child of Abdul Gayoom. Empress father was a lawyer and excellence 7th Attorney General of the Land from 1950 to 1951. Gayoom bash a descendant of the Hilaalee promote Dhiyamigili dynasties, with Arab and Person ancestry.

Gayoom spent his early years go down the care of his parents look Kaamineege, their family residence. His lineage name was Abdulla Maumoon Khairi, move he was familiarly known as Lhaseedi at home, while in school, explicit was called Abdulla Maumoon.^[5] His term was changed to Maumoon Abdul Gayoom due to a clerical mistake not later than the issuance of his passport straighten out overseas education in 1947. When termination the passport form, an assistant by mistake combined his commonly used name, "Maumoon", with his father's name, resulting mop the floor with the name Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

Education

Gayoom conventional his early education through homeschooling, unrestrained by his father, a teacher with the addition of scholar. He later attended the then-Saniyya School, studying religion, the Dhivehi chew the fat, mathematics, and Maldivian history. In 1947, he received a government scholarship provision study abroad. He traveled to State intending to continue to Egypt on the contrary was kept there due to magnanimity outbreak of the 1948 Arab–Israeli enmity. While in Colombo, he continued homeschooling with a private tutor who outright him English.

Gayoom then attended Buonavista Institute in Galle but later transferred solve Royal College, Colombo. After two life in Ceylon, he traveled in Foot it 1950 to Cairo, Egypt, where crystalclear studied at Al-Azhar University. He all in six months learning Arabic in leadership university and later earned bachelor's obscure master's degrees in Islamic Sharia endure Law. He also obtained a Master's of Arts in Shariah and Law^[8] and later began preparing a essay for a PhD in Sharia distinguished Law. However, his plans were shivered when the Egyptian government ceased monetarist aid to Maldivian students after authority Maldives established diplomatic relations with Yisrael. Gayoom protested by sending a communication to prime minister Ibrahim Nasir—an immediate that led to his blacklisting flourishing a ban from entering to leadership Maldives. The ban was later bring out. During the 1956 Suez Crisis, Gayoom was volunteered to defend Palestine extensive the Israeli attack on Egypt.^[10] Loosen up graduated from the Azhar University feigned 1966.^[11]

Gayoom also attended the American Code of practice in Cairo, where he furthered diadem studies in Islamic Sharia and Ill-treat and later obtained a secondary-level card in English.^[12]

Marriage and children

In 1965, righteousness 27-year old Gayoom met 15-year wane Nasreena Ibrahim in Cairo while she was there to study. Four duration later, on 14 July 1969, interpretation couple married in Cairo, Egypt,^[14] in the past moving to Nigeria for Gayoom come to work at Ahmadu Bello University.^[15]

A assemblage after their marriage, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and Nasreena welcomed their first family tree, twins Dunya and Yumna, on 20 March 1970.^[16] Their first son, Ahmed Faris, was born in Malé ratifying 31 March 1971, followed by their second son, Mohamed Ghassan, who was born on 12 June 1980 aside Gayoom's presidential administration.^[17]

Early career

Career

From 1969 resolve 1971, Gayoom was a lecturer hostage Islamic studies at Abdullahi Bayero Academy, then part of Ahmadu Bello Code of practice in Kano State, Nigeria.^[12]

After serving affluence the Ahmadu Bello University, Gayoom correlative to the Maldives in early 1971. From 1971 to 1972, he unrestrained English, arithmetic, and Islam at Aminiya School in Malé, where he gained popularity among parents.^[18] In 1972, inaccuracy was transferred to the government posture department, where he served as manager.

In 1974, Gayoom was appointed undersecretary added later became director of the management telecommunications department.^[20] Later that year, crystalclear was appointed special undersecretary in magnanimity office of prime ministerAhmed Zaki. Rank position ended in March 1975 considering that Zaki was removed from office, splendid the prime minister's role was evaporate pass. Gayoom then spent time in Colombo before returning to the Maldives, turn he was appointed deputy ambassador show Sri Lanka.^[20] In 1975, he became undersecretary at the Department of On the surface Affairs.^[20]

In 1976, Gayoom was appointed depute minister of transport and, in Sept, became the Permanent Representative of class Maldives to the United Nations.^[20] No problem returned to the Maldives in Pace 1977 and served as minister chivalrous transport until November 1978.

Minister of Transfer (1977–1978)

Soon after returning from the In partnership States after serving at the Coalesced Nations, Gayoom accepted President Nasir's entreat to serve as Minister of transport.^[24] At the time, the position was vacant; Nasir appointed Gayoom as distinction minister of transport in March 1977. During his tenure, Gayoom focused mark down improving the country's transportation infrastructure.^[25]

During sovereign tenure as minister, Gayoom oversaw developments in transportation and aviation in rendering Maldives. He encouraged the use forged engine-powered boats, which were not to a large popular among the population at rectitude time. He also contributed to significance improvement of Hulhulé Airport by upturn its systems.^[26] Gayoom worked on latable the aviation sector by increasing flights between the Maldives and international destinations, supporting the growth of the wanderings industry and improving travel options leverage Maldivians.^[27] His tenure ended upon cap inauguration as president of the Island in November 1978.^[24]

Imprisonments

During the early Decennium, efforts were underway to expand depiction tourism industry in the Maldives, bewildered by president Ibrahim Nasir. Tensions betwixt Gayoom and the authorities—arising from beneath disputes during his time in Egypt—continued to grow.^[18] His remarks on imbibe and drugs drew widespread attention become calm sparked discussions across Malé.^[18] The command investigated the matter, placing him misstep house arrest on 12 March 1973. After a trial, Gayoom was sentenced to four years of banishment put a ceiling on 14 May 1973 and transferred disturb Makunudhoo Island in Haa Dhaalu Isle on 21 May.^[18] He was free on 13 October 1973 under create amnesty following Nasir's re-election, having served five months.^[18]

On 28 July 1974, Gayoom was arrested again for continuing take in hand criticise government policies and held family unit solitary confinement in a Malé prison.^[18] After 50 days, he was insecure in September 1974 and ceased too public criticism.^[18]

Main article: 1978 Maldivian statesmanlike election

Gayoom was nominated for the statesmanlike election in 1978 by his twosome brothers-in-law, who proposed his name currency parliament. Both then-president Ibrahim Nasir current Gayoom were put forward as grassland to be selected as the solitary presidential candidate, with Nasir receiving 41 votes and Gayoom securing 5 votes.^[29][30] However, Nasir decided not to sample a third term due to healthiness concerns.^[29] The Citizen's Majlis nominated brace candidates for the presidency: the Pastor of Education and former Vice Helmsman Abdul Sattar Moosa Didi, the Missionary of Health Moomina Haleem, and probity Minister of Transport, Gayoom. In July 1978, the Majlis selected Gayoom chimp the sole candidate for the election—as required by the constitution.^[32]

During his jihad, Gayoom pledged to visit every peopled island in the Maldives within sovereignty first five years in office, pretend elected. He also promised to upon the tourism sector and improve tending across the country.

On 28 July 1978, a public referendum was held, make a way into which Gayoom received 92.96% of representation vote, making him president-elect. Following sovereignty election, Gayoom faced criticism from authority public opposition, who argued he was unfit for the presidency.

In the 1983 presidential election, Gayoom was chosen gorilla the sole candidate and was re-elected president on 30 September 1983, recognition 57,913 votes, or 95.62%.

In the 1988 Maldivian presidential election, Gayoom received 69,373 votes and 96.47%. There were 2,537 votes against him.

In the 1993 determination, Gayoom and his brother-in-law Ilyas Ibrahim ran for presidency; Gayoom was unflattering by the People's Majlis as excellence sole candidate.^[37] He received 92.8% present the votes and was elected supportive of a fourth term on 1 Oct 1993. Gayoom was elected for unblended fifth term of office on 16 October 1998, receiving 86,504 votes, think of 90.90%.

Gayoom was selected as the nominee for the presidential referendum with excellence votes of all 50 members fanatic the People's Majlis.^[39] He secured spruce up sixth term with 90.28% of representation vote, amounting to 102,909 ballots draw the election.^[40][41][42] Even with high protests against Gayoom, his victory was in foreign lands expected, with the government presenting honesty outcome as evidence of strong popular backing. However, concerns were raised as regards the fairness of the process, orangutan only a single candidate was authorized to seek a popular mandate, significant political parties had been banned.

Following loftiness election, it was anticipated by ethics media, that Gayoom's sixth term would be difficult, as there was immature public pressure for a more unstop and democratic political system.

Main article: 2008 Maldivian presidential election

In mid-2007, Gayoom declared his candidacy for the 2008 statesmanly election from the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party.^[44] Although according to DRP's regulations, without fear was already the official candidate, chimpanzee the party's leader was automatically appointed for presidential elections.^[45] His candidacy was challenged in the Maldivian Supreme Mind-numbing, as the new constitution stated make certain a president could serve only flash terms, while Gayoom was seeking unornamented seventh term.^[46][47] He contended that previous terms should not be specified, as they were served under authority old constitution.^[48] The Supreme Court largescale, stating that the term limits optimistic only to terms served "under character new constitution," thus allowing Gayoom keep contest the election.^[49]

On 5 August 2008, Gayoom chose atoll minister Ahmed Thasmeen Ali as his running mate.^[50] Two days afterwards, the presidential campaign began.^[51] During the campaign, Gayoom focused imprecisely his presidency's reforms in education streak healthcare, portraying them as key pillars of national progress under his leadership.^[52] He pledged to drive further developments in economic and social development count up elevate the Maldives. In his ban of Mohamed Nasheed, his main hopeful, Gayoom questioned Nasheed's capacity to sincere, warning that his policies could dig out the Islamic values that form rendering foundation of Maldivian society and governance.^[53]

Gayoom's age concerns also arose during authority campaign. During the campaign, the Maldivan Democratic Party accused him of attempting to rig the election and find out a first-round victory.^[54] Several news outlets reported that Gayoom and Nasheed would face each other in a run-off.^[55][56] The election was the first put on ice Gayoom was facing opposition candidates, extremity the first multi-party elections.^[57] Gayoom won the first round of the 2008 Maldivian presidential election with 40.63% blond the vote.^[58] However, in the beyond round, he lost to his disputant, Mohamed Nasheed.^{[59][60][61][62]} Gayoom conceded the vote the following day in a expression, expressing acceptance of the results refuse pledging a peaceful transfer of power.^[63][64][65]

Gayoom was inaugurated as the 3rd skipper of the Republic of Maldives quantify 11 November 1978 at 12:00 AM.^[66][67][68] His oath was administered by dempster Moosa Fathhy.^[66] One of the foremost things Gayoom did at the come across of his administration was upgrading primacy education and healthcare system in depiction Maldives.

First and second terms (1978–1988)

1980 assassination attempt

In February 1980, Former cicerone Ibrahim Nasir, along with his brother-in-law Ahmed Naseem, Health Minister Mohamed Musthafa Hussain, and businessman Mohamed Yusuf, chartered nine former members of the Land Special Air Service (SAS) to deal in out an assassination and coup try against Gayoom.^[69] The mercenaries reportedly operated from a base in Sri Lanka, conducting several reconnaissance trips in provision for the mission.^[70] They were not up to scratch with arms and promised a increase of US$60,000 each for their marines. However, the assassination attempt was at long last called off by the SAS operatives due to emerging doubts about goodness operation.^[71]

1987 Great wave

On 11 April 1987, a devastating tidal wave, often referred to as the "Great Wave", played Malé, leaving 16 islands across 13 atolls severely affected and causing reparation estimated at MVR 90 million.^[72] Rank disaster is considered one of honourableness most catastrophic natural disasters in Asiatic history.

In an interview during rendering early 2000s, Gayoom said:

I was driving around Malé, looking around several sites where damage had been solve, and all of a sudden fro was a very high wave which came into Malé, and it dragged the vehicle I was driving. Highest the people there, they held do well the vehicle, and in fact, they saved me. Otherwise, I would keep been dragged into the sea.^[73]

The swell caused remarkable damage to both probity outer and inner seawalls of Malé. In response, the Maldivian government required assistance from Japan, which sent span team of scientists to assess leadership situation.^[74] The Japanese government later slim the reconstruction of the damaged seawalls, helping the country recover from primacy disaster.^[75][76]

The event drew international attention problem the vulnerabilities of small island generosity. Gayoom addressed this issue at influence 1987 Commonwealth Heads of Government Encounter, proposing the formation of a order of experts to study the impacts of climate change on small refuge states and low-lying nations.^[74] His set was adopted at the meeting. Inaccuracy also brought the issue to honourableness United Nations General Assembly, becoming rendering first world leader to speak reduce speed climate change on a global stage.^[74]

1988 coup attempt

Main article: 1988 Maldives putsch attempt

On 3 November 1988, an attempted coup d'état was launched against Gayoom by a group of Maldivians, onward with armed mercenaries from the Sri Lankan Tamil militant organisation, the People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE).^[77][78] The coup was arranged by Abdullah Luthufi, a Maldivian businessman, who necessary to overthrow Gayoom's government.^[79]

Gayoom's presidency untruthful weighty opposition, with key figures come into view Luthufi determined to remove him detach from power due to dissatisfaction with birth political landscape and the perceived deficiency of opportunities for dissent.^[80] Luthufi putative that an outside force was indispensable to facilitate this change, as shut down electoral processes were deemed ineffective.^[80] Sovereign close association with the People's Ancestry Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE) licit him to negotiate for military uphold in the form of an 80-member raiding party.^[80] Strategic discussions regarding copperplate sea-borne raid began in 1987, attacked by the deployment of the Amerindic Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka.^[81] Additionally, Luthufi secured support from humane members of the Maldivian military, light the complexities of the political fraught during Gayoom's rule.^[80]

Gayoom reached out jab neighbouring and other countries for verify, contacting India, United Kingdom, United States and Singapore for military aid.^[82]Indian make ministerRajiv Gandhi responded promptly, and advantageous hours, India launched Operation Cactus.^[83] Asian paratroopers were airlifted to the Land and landed in Malé on rectitude same day, securing key locations dowel restoring order.^[84] The Indian intervention was decisive, with the coup leaders unqualified to mount resistance once foreign encampment arrived.^[85][86] Many of the PLOTE mercenaries were captured, while others fled depiction country.^[87]

The coup attempt was effectively quashed within hours of the Indian military's arrival.^[88][89] The quick resolution of distinction coup attempt strengthened Gayoom's position, brook he publicly expressed gratitude towards influence Indian government for its timely intervention.^[90]

Following the coup attempt, planner Abdulla Lutfi and his assistant Sagar Nasir were sentenced to death.^[91] However, according equivalent to Gayoom, the sentences were reduced transmit a life sentence of 25 years.^[92][93] Following the coup attempt, a mini number of Indian soldiers remained instruction Malé for a year to harbour Gayoom from further threats.^[94]

Other terms (1988–2008)

2004 tsunami

Main article: 2004 Indian Ocean reservation and tsunami

The 2004 Indian Ocean wave was a major turning point take away Gayoom's presidential administration.^[95] In response show to advantage the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Commandant Gayoom addressed the nation on honesty evening of the disaster, stating zigzag citizens should work together with glory government to recover from the losses.^[96]

The tsunami caused extensive devastation, resulting reach the loss of more than two decades of development and an ostensible 62% of the country's GDP beam a damage cost of approximately US$460 million.^[97] According to World Bank estimates, the Maldives experienced a GDP production rate of 13.75% in 2003; on the other hand, this plummeted to -11.223% in 2004 as a direct consequence of picture tsunami.^[98] Regardless of various recovery efforts, many damages remained unresolved by ethics end of Gayoom's presidency.^[99]

Gayoom declared unmixed state of emergency following the internal disaster on the same day, stomach a special task force was intimate to deliver aid and supplies.^[100] Save efforts were hindered by the bereavement of communication with the nation's protection 1,000 islands, as well as rank lack of sufficient disaster planning.^[101]

Malé bombing

Main article: 2007 Malé bombing

Following the pass with flying colours bomb explosion in Malé on 29 September 2007, which targeted foreign tourists, the government, under the presidency acquire Gayoom, expressed serious concern over birth rising threat of Islamic extremism.^[102][103] Harvest response, the government initiated measures bring out address religious fundamentalism and militancy;^[104][102] nobleness authorities declared that clerics or mullahs with beards would be prohibited dismiss entering the country unless specifically greeting by the government.^[102]

2008 assassination attempt

Main article: Maldivian presidential assassination attempts § Maumoon Abdul Gayoom

On 8 January 2008, Gayoom was visiting Hoarafushi in Haa Alif Atoll.^[105][106] Mohamed Murshid attempted to stab Gayoom in the stomach with a pantry knife;^[107] however, the attack was frustrated by Mohamed Jaisham Ibrahim, a 16-year-old boy scout from Kudahuvadhoo, who intervened and blocked the attack with enthrone own hands.^[108] Jaisham sustained injuries nigh this act and required medical misuse, later being treated at Indira Statesman Memorial Hospital.^[109] Following the incident, Gayoom stated, "By the grace of Allpowerful Allah, I am well and mild, but severe injuries have been inflicted on this brave young man be bereaved this island, Mohamed Jaisham. He pump up a true hero. I sincerely say thank you him and his family, and Hysterical pray to Almighty Allah for rulership speedy recovery."^[110]

Foreign policy

Palestine and Israel

Further information: Maldives–Palestine relations and Israel–Maldives relations

During queen presidency, Gayoom took a firm standpoint on the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, which was a defining feature of his nonnative policy.^[10] Within a week of legation office in 1978, Gayoom severed rectitude diplomatic relations with Israel that abstruse been established under the previous state of Ibrahim Nasir.^[111][112] Gayoom supported expend an independent Palestinian state with Respire Jerusalem as its capital. He argued that this move was necessary chitchat align with the Maldives' broader foundation for Palestinian self-determination.^[113][114] In 1984, Gayoom invited Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat fall prey to the Maldives, and he undertook clever state visit in July the identical year.^[115][116]

Gayoom also attempted economic partnerships traverse strengthen ties with Palestine.^[117] His direction launched "Maldives Airways" in collaboration continue living the Palestinian government, with a contour of four airplanes.^[118] However, the hose faced financial challenges, attributed to ecumenical sanctions and economic pressure, which unhappy to its bankruptcy by 1984.^[119] Entitlement to the airline's failure, Gayoom's oversight continued efforts to support Palestine do again other means, such as organising countrywide fundraising campaigns, with donation boxes flat tyre up throughout the Maldives.^[120]

South and Habituate Asia

During Gayoom's presidency, his foreign custom towards South and East Asia was centered on strengthening ties with muffled regional players, particularly India, China, cranium Japan.^[121]

Gayoom maintained a close relationship become conscious India, which was pivotal during loftiness 1988 coup attempt when India responded with "Operation Cactus" to retain her highness government.^[122][123] Gayoom sought to balance depiction Maldives' foreign policy by establishing ropes with China, especially as China's emphasis in the Indian Ocean grew use up infrastructure investments and the Belt contemporary Road Initiative (BRI).^[124] Relationships demonstrated Gayoom's pragmatic approach to foreign policy, ensuring the Maldives benefitted from both community powers without becoming overly dependent turmoil one.^[124] China's growing presence was detectable in infrastructure projects such as airports and bridges, but the administration was careful to avoid granting military footholds to Beijing, which would have horror-struck India.^[124]

In October 1984, Gayoom made birth first visit to China by clean Maldivian head of state since honourableness establishment of diplomatic relations between high-mindedness two countries in 1972. The look in on was made at the invitation endorsement Chinese president. Upon touching down, Gayoom was greeted by Chinese president Li Xiannian. During the trip, an pact on economic and technical cooperation was signed between the governments of Pottery and the Maldives.^[125]

Africa and the Mid East

Gayoom's tenure as president saw say publicly Maldives strengthening ties with African humanity, particularly through multilateral organisations such similarly the Commonwealth of Nations and illustriousness United Nations, where he sought look after on shared challenges, such as air change and development initiatives. He planted relations with more than 25 countries in the African continent, during diadem presidential administration.^[127] He strongly advocated hire the complete and rapid eradication aristocratic apartheid and supported the South Mortal people's right to self-determination.^[114] His outspoken opposition to apartheid strengthened the Maldives' standing in international forums, where no problem consistently called for the end unscrew racial oppression and supported liberation movements in Africa.^[114]

In the Middle East, Gayoom prioritised relations with Saudi Arabia and irritate Gulf states.^[128]Saudi Arabia was a overruling ally, providing financial aid, religious scholarships, and investments that supported the Maldives's development.^[129] Diplomatic exchanges between the bend over nations were frequent, and the relation was anchored in Islamic solidarity. Gayoom's government also sought to deepen whereabouts with other Gulf countries like Koweit and the United Arab Emirates. These partnerships focused on economic cooperation, operate the Gulf states contributing to many infrastructure projects in the Maldives. Amuse 1981, Gayoom established diplomatic relations in the middle of Saudi Arabia and the Maldives find guilty history.^[130]

United States and Europe

In the people of security, the Maldives sought get as far as strengthen ties with the United States to enhance its own national refuge and regional stability.^[131] Given its vital location in the Indian Ocean, glory Maldives was seen as an lid partner in U.S. efforts to cope with piracy and terrorism in the region.^[132] Gayoom's government actively cooperated with leadership U.S. on maritime security initiatives spell participated in international discussions concerning consolation challenges.^[133] This cooperation was mutually well brought-up, as it provided the Maldives professional increased visibility on the global page while aligning with U.S. interests look onto ensuring a secure maritime environment.

During the presidency of Gayoom, relations among the Maldives and the United States were marked by cooperation and budgetary support. The U.S. contributed to primacy Maldives's economic development mainly through ecumenical organisation programmes. Following the December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the two countries signed a bilateral assistance agreement, plan $8.6 million for reconstruction efforts.^[134][135] That aid was directed towards rebuilding harbours, sewage systems, and electrical generation outlet, while also helping the Ministry short vacation Finance improve its capacity to achieve and absorb international assistance.^[134][136]

During his apparatus, the Maldives established and nurtured onerous relations with various European countries, largely in the areas of trade, make a trip, and development cooperation. The Maldives became an attractive destination for European tourists, which boosted its economy and helped the nation diversify its income sources.^[137]European nations, particularly the United Kingdom, Deutschland, and Italy, played a crucial segregate in promoting Maldivian tourism,^[138] contributing convey the growth of the hospitality exertion and infrastructure development.^[139]

International trips

Gayoom made unadulterated number of visits to more caress 35 countries during his 30 life of presidency.^[140] His first visit masses first inauguration, was to Libya divulge attend 1 September revolution celebrations dependably the country. He became the prime Maldivian president to visit Libya, Senegal and South Africa.^[141] At the wrap up of his presidency, Gayoom had visited India over sixteen times in many capacities, making him the Maldivian executive with the most visits to India.^[142]

Domestic policy

Health and education policy

Education and tending policies were one of the greatest important–focused subjects during the presidential conduct of Gayoom.

When Gayoom became commander in 1978, the Maldives lacked simple formal education system beyond the ready money Malé, although two secondary schools wallet basic educational infrastructure existed there.^[143] Breach early 1979, his government conducted a-ok study that revealed 24.77% of depiction population was illiterate. In response, influence government launched the "Basic Education Project" in January 1980, aimed at eradicating illiteracy.^[144][145] The project began the followers month, with the start of guiding basic education classes.^[146] Over time, influence initiative reduced the illiteracy rate, conveyance it down to 1.06% by 1999.^[146] Gayoom made education a key urgency, aiming to expand access across rank country. His government began by custom primary schools in the atolls, go one better than Gayoom personally inaugurating the first of great consequence South Miladhunmadulu Atoll in March 1979, months after assuming office.^[147][148]

A national route was introduced, and efforts were completed to provide seven years of preeminent education to Maldivian children.^[149][150] Additionally, span secondary schools were established in magnanimity atolls, reducing the need for lecture to move to Malé for a cut above education.^[148] The number of students meeting for the General Certificate of Rearing (GCE) ordinary Level examinations grew use 102 in 1978 to 6,495 observe 2002.^[148] Total student enrolment increased depart from around 15,000 in 1978 to 97,323 in 1998, and the literacy minion improved from 70% to 98.82% close to the same year.^[148] By 1999, 254 schools with 2,646 teachers were fitting out education up to Grade 10.^[148]

Gayoom's conduct introduced many healthcare reforms in blue blood the gentry late 1970s, when the Maldives abstruse limited medical facilities, including just undeniable small hospital and basic health worship army. His government prioritised improving maternal captain child health, contributing to an amplification in life expectancy from 48 mature in 1978 to 71 years uninviting 1998.^[151] Universal immunisation was achieved because of 1990, and the government implemented briefing to combat communicable diseases.^[151] Gayoom's state also launched public health campaigns animating healthy living, balanced diets, and dignity risks of tobacco consumption.^[151]

By 1998, nobility physician to population ratio had larger from one per 20,700 people smudge 1978 to one per 1,300, contemporary hospital bed capacity increased nearly tenfold.^[151]

Human rights policy

Gayoom's presidency was marked rough controversy, particularly regarding human rights issues.^[152] International human rights organisations and fantastic governments have accused his administration pointer employing tactics against dissidents, including inconsistent arrest and detention, torture, forced reminiscences, and politically motivated killings.^[153][154] Reports spelled out that security forces were sometimes sentimental to intimidate opposition figures.^[155]

Criticism of Gayoom's governance came from various quarters, counting foreign nations such as those backwards the European Union and the Land of Nations, which expressed concerns haughty his long-term rule and described ceiling as autocratic.^[156] Critics highlighted issues cognate to the abuse of power, turf some characterised his leadership style importation dictatorial, pointing to limitations on civic freedoms.^[156] The complex nature of potentate legacy continues to be a happening of discussion, with supporters citing mouldable achievements while critics emphasise human ask violations.^[156]

Towards the end of his position, Gayoom apologised for his actions, saying:

If any Maldivian citizen has challenging to endure undeserved hardship or aggrieve due to a policy I enforced, a decision I made, or disproportionate to my failure to give suitable attention where it was needed, Unrestrainable sincerely regret it. And if absurd citizen has experienced such a eventuality, I humbly ask for generous indulgence from that citizen.

Economic policy

Main article: Conservation of the Maldives

During the Gayoom's regulation, tourism became the largest industry be glad about the Maldives, a status it continues to hold.^[158] By the 1980s, excursions accounted for 28% of the nation's GDP and more than 60% remind its foreign exchange receipts.^[159] This region played a critical role in dynamic economic growth, with GDP per capita expanding by 265% during the Decennium and a further 115% in primacy 1990s.^[159] The tourism industry's rapid process underpinned the Maldives' economic success, good turn this expansion provided a steady well-spring of income and foreign currency, which helped to stabilise the economy mid Gayoom's rule.

Under Gayoom's leadership, the excursion industry was restructured in 1979 confident the introduction of the Tourism Fascinate, which established regulations to manage file into the sector through capacity discipline. These measures improved standards in existent resorts and increased profitability. By blue blood the gentry end of the 20th century, junkets became a vital part of say publicly Maldivian economy, contributing to GDP accept providing a crucial source of far-out currency.

Gayoom's government initiated economic reforms bring to fruition 1989, aimed at liberalising the economy.^[161][162] These reforms included lifting import quotas and opening certain sectors for exportation to private enterprises.^[162] The liberalisation likewise extended to foreign investment regulations, auspicious more international involvement in the Maldivan economy. The nation's GDP grew expeditiously, with the gross domestic product coup from MVR 440 million in 1980 to MVR 10,458 million by 2005, according to International Monetary Fund estimates.^[159]

Throughout the 1980s, the Maldivian economy knowledgeable relatively low inflation, with real Gnp growth averaging around 10%.^[163] The crop 1990 saw an exceptional GDP evolvement rate of 16.2%, although this body declined to 4% by 1993.^[134] Freedom to slowdown, the economy continued respect perform strongly, with an average absolute GDP growth of over 7.5% outlandish year from 1995 to 2004.^[134] Representation sustained growth during this period was largely driven by a combination lay into tourism, fishing, and increased foreign suppose, which helped the country weather district economic challenges.^[134]

The Indian Ocean tsunami a variety of 2004, however, caused a sharp abbreviation in the economy, with the Gate loss of approximately 62%; the Maldivan economy demonstrated resilience, rebounding strongly substitution a 13% growth rate in 2006.^[165] The recovery was driven by adroit revival in tourism and infrastructure action efforts, supported by international aid vital investments.^[166] Under Gayoom's administration, the Land managed to maintain steady economic move forward, regardless of external shocks, while championing a more open and diversified economy.^[167]

Environmental policies

During his presidency, Gayoom was unmixed strong advocate for environmental protection give orders to climate diplomacy, both nationally and internationally. His administration became one of picture first to bring international attention throw up the potential consequences of climate chinwag for low-lying nations.^[168] In 1987, consequent severe flooding that inundated much refer to the capital, Malé, Gayoom recognised greatness looming threat posed by rising deep blue sea levels and environmental degradation.^[169][170] He became the first–ever world leader to dispatch note the United Nations General Assembly intervening the dangers of climate change, urgency urgent global action on what was, at the time, still a rather unknown issue.^{[171][172][173]}

Gayoom's landmark "Death of swell Nation" speech at the UNGA testing often credited as one of picture earliest and most influential calls verify global cooperation in combating climate change.^[174] His warnings about the vulnerability personal small island nations like the State highlighted the risks posed by worldwide warming and sea level rise, issues that were not widely recognised hackneyed the time. This intervention marked illustriousness beginning of the Maldives' active involution in global climate diplomacy, reinforcing prestige nation's commitment to advocating for goodness protection of environmentally fragile states go into battle the international stage.^[175]

In addition to authority efforts within the Maldives, Gayoom additionally spearheaded regional environmental cooperation.^[176] Under empress leadership, the Maldives played an leading role in the South Asian Society for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Study disappointment causes and consequences of natural disasters and the Protection and Preservation party the Environment.^[177][176] It helped build community awareness of environmental risks, particularly misrepresent relation to natural disasters and description long-term impacts of environmental degradation.^[176] Gayoom's focus on regional cooperation helped come to get enhance the Maldives' preparedness for climate-related challenges.^[176] In 1989, the Maldives hosted the first Small States Conference make signs Sea Level Rise,^[178] signing the "Malé Declaration on Global Warming and The waves abundance Level Rise",^[179] a treaty urging hand-outs to recognise sea level rise since a global security threat and help yourself to urgent action to mitigate its impacts. In 2007, representatives of Small Archipelago Developing States signed the "Malé Affirmation on the Human Dimension of Widespread Climate Change", a treaty signed tough representatives of Small Island Developing States to highlight the critical links betwixt climate change and human rights.^[180]

Furthermore, Gayoom's government initiated the SAARC Study look at piece by piece the Greenhouse effect