Maldives Civil Registration

Offices to Contact
Maldives Washington DC Embassy 801 Second Avenue Suite 202 NY, NY 10017

Telephone: (212) 599 6195 Fax: (212) 661 6405

Historical Background
Buddhism was the main religion and influence in the Maldives for 1,200 years. The Buddhist king converted to Islam in 1153 or 1193. Six Islamic dynasties lasted until 1932. In 1558, the Portuguese established a small garrison, but were driven out fifteen years later.

In the mid-17th century, the Dutch were heavily involved in the Maldives. In 1796, the British came, and the Maldives became a British Protectorate until 1953. On 11 November 1968, the republic was created.

Ethnic groups include a mixture of Sinhalese, Dravidian, Arab, Australasian, and African resulting from historical changes in government.

Coverage and Compliance
"As early as 1960s, births and deaths have been reported to the Ministry of Health (MoH) through a system of registration. This system was not properly enforced until birth and death registration law which was enacted in 1992."