International Law and Maldives: Navigating Geopolitics, Trade and Sovereignty

Summary: The Maldives, an Indian Ocean archipelagic nation, holds a unique geopolitical significance in international relations. Its historical roots in global trade, particularly with Arab and Persian merchants, established a necessity for foreign trade due to limited resources. The European arrival disrupted established trade networks, leading to a new order dominated by European corporations. The nation, barring a brief Portuguese occupation, maintained sovereignty, and resisted foreign intervention. It developed an Islamic legal system, sustaining Sharia law. Post-independence, it actively engaged in international bodies, emphasizing self-determination, climate change, and small island issues. Recent initiatives include artificial islands and active participation in international treaties, but it faced challenges in international arbitration disputes, with substantial losses. The Maldives has transitioned from a focus on commercial diplomacy to broader foreign policy geared toward trade and investment. This transition coincided with its graduation from the Least Developed Country category. Its engagement with international law covers various aspects such as sea level rise, maritime delimitation, treaties, investment agreements, and tax policies, showcasing its evolving global interactions. The country's commitment to international bodies, human rights, and global norms reflects its stance as an active participant in the international community, despite challenges in international disputes and economic dependency on foreign investments.