There are stories untold, unheard and unacknowledged - and these narratives often have the most profound impact. Hidden beneath the surface of societal norms and cultural taboos lie experiences that shape individuals profoundly. They shape our perceptions of self, others, and the world around us. Yet, these narratives often remain hushed up, their potential to educate and inform left unexplored.

Understanding these unspoken narratives is critical, particularly when it comes to Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in the Maldives. Despite progressive legislations and policies, the complexity of integrating CSE into the Maldivian curriculum is a critical issue, stemming from cultural, religious and societal beliefs that often consider discussions around these topics as taboo. This societal inhibition is largely due to misconceptions and limited understanding of the importance of CSE, its role in promoting sexual health, human rights, and the overall wellbeing of young people.

Recognizing the pressing need for initiating these conversations, UNFPA Maldives, together with Basikoafu and Symbolic Records unveiled an advocacy music video ‘Neygifaa’, pulling back the curtains on some of the most pressing societal issues we grapple with today. The storyline delves into the harsh realities of drug abuse, unsafe sex, bullying, broken families, and the significant subject of mental health. 

Rafhan Shareef, the producer of ‘Neygifaa’, illustrates the crushing isolation individuals can experience when confronted with such issues or challenges, underlying the importance of support in these situations, stating that “If someone just supported them even slightly, it could actually go a really long way.”

Andrew Hodges from the Australian High Commission in Maldives, profoundly moved by the video, underscored the universality of its narrative, showing that such issues exist everywhere. His emotional response further amplified the global relevance of this message, and its potential to enact change.

The role of men and boys in these narratives is brought into focus, underlining the necessity to educate them to address these issues responsibly. Echoing this sentiment, is Aishath Irasha, not just a teacher in the video, but a practicing licensed psychologist and lecturer in real life, who highlights how societal expectations shape boys’ emotional growth and behavior. She emphasized the need for society to recognize boys’ feelings and experiences as part of the larger conversation on gender norms.

This video, in its unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities many individuals face, is a call to action for society as a whole. It’s a reminder that, whether we realize it or not, we all have a role in these stories. Here at UNFPA, we firmly believe that knowledge is power, and that prevention is key. With a strong foundation in CSE, young people can make safer, healthier choices, and have the confidence to deal with challenges in a proactive, empowered way. CSE is not about promoting sexuality, rather it’s about providing the right information to prevent negative outcomes and empower our youth to reach their full potential. Simply put - CSE is a tool - a powerful one - that educates and empowers young people. It provides factual, age-appropriate information that can help prevent risky behaviors and adverse outcomes. It is about equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values they need to make responsible decisions about their sexual and social relationships, now and in the future.

Sharing this video can be your first step in bringing these untold stories to light, breaking the silence and contributing to a society that respects and values individual rights and wellbeing. 

Let’s start the conversation. Let’s be part of the change.

If you’re inspired by our work and are interested in collaborating with UNFPA, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We welcome individuals of all ages who share our commitment to youth empowerment, education, and prevention. Together, we can create a society where everyone, especially our young people, can realize their full potential.