The Maldives began to implement a decentralisation process in the 1990s, with constitutional and political reforms. The Decentralization Act was passed in 2010, formalising the roles and responsibilities of the Atoll and Island councils. The transfer of authority and responsibilities to the Island councils was uneven, with some functions being decentralised while others continue to be managed by utility corporations. The decentralisation process has faced challenges, including a lack of institutional and administrative capacity, corruption, elite capture, and a lack of understanding and awareness among local communities.
UNICEF commissioned this study to gain a better understanding of the impact of decentralisation on services to children. The study reviewed the main changes in policy and legislation because of decentralisation and assessed the impact of these changes on services to children. The study considered health, education, social protection and municipal services. The study provides an analysis of the gaps and barriers that exist in the relevant decentralisation laws, policies, and their implementation, as well as policy recommendations.