We’re thinking big — work with us.
We are a non-partisan think tank and consultancy firm based in the Maldives.
Our central project is the Policy Lab, a program aimed at developing the policy environment in the Maldives through original research, targeted projects, policy tools, publications, courses and seminars in partnership with other institutions, and training the next generation of policymakers.
At least 50% of our projects will always be unpaid work on policy development: whether as pro bono policy and technical advisory roles, education, research and publications, or developing data tools.
The Policy Lab is partially funded by proceeds from consultancy. As consultants, we specialise in providing deeply researched insights and analysis, polished publications and reports, and guided expertise for clients. Whether you’re a government agency, local or city council, NGO, private sector company, advocacy group, educational institution, international business, or anyone in need of policy expertise, you can find that with us.
As a think tank, we want to work with you. Reach out to us for collaborations on academic or policy matters, consultancy, research proposals, sponsorships or funding offers, project ideas, pitches for articles, or cross-border partnerships.
Our Approach
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Working toward results
evidence-based methods, concrete outcomes
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Finding low-hanging fruit
looking for small changes with big impact
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Starting conversations
public discussion drives policy outcomes
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Pushing ourselves
hard work, high volume, high standards
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Conviction over cynicism
you can’t change things if you never try
Our Impact
Since we first began operations in April 2024 with a team of 2, we have focused on maximising the impact we can make with resources available to us. We are proud to be able to show concrete results from our work. We are looking to grow and expand our capabilities: if you are interested in funding our work to allow us to expand further, or working with us as a consultancy client, please do contact us.
Advocacy for social policy creating third spaces for communities
Our publications and advocacy for a social development policy that highlighted the lack of social spaces outside the home and work in Maldivian city development, and promoted social policy focused on creating third spaces for intergenerational connections and community enrichment, was reflected in a Cabinet decision in November 2024 to develop a “Third Space Community Centre” in central Male’.
Internship programs and portfolio guidance for young policy professionals
We have facilitated research internships for 5 young professionals in the policy field, centered around a guided research project and paper development plan, as well as reading plans and training courses in policy areas. We plan to continue taking on interns to provide research guidance, mentorship, training and educational resources for future professionals in the policy field.
Technical and policy development support for the National Library
We supported the National Library of Maldives with technical capacity and policy expertise in a pro bono capacity. Our work included supporting the Library in preparing a Social Council paper to advocate for an up-to-date central National Library building, Regional Libraries in key cities, boat library for atolls, and a network of library services in rural areas. This paper was approved and construction is set to begin in 2025.
365 Arts City program: a city-wide roster of third spaces and activities
We plan and host a series of events with activities such as movie nights or trivia nights with partner institutions, aiming to build a roster toward a “365 Arts City” - one where on any given night, anyone can go out and find something to do. This is part of our advocacy arts-centric urbanism and cultural policy to turn Male’ into a vibrant cultural city, focused on a spread of small low-cost and pop-up venues embedded in communities.
Focus groups-based action plan development with the National Library
Over May and June 2024, we worked with the National Library to hold a series of focus groups and workshops with around 70 stakeholders, which we used to propose and develop action plans for an expansion of National Library activities under a pro bono working relationship. These plans are set to be endorsed and incorporated in the Government’s 5-Year Strategic Action Plan.
Public transportation and sustainable transport advocacy
Our advocacy for public transport and sustainable transport uptake and the reduction of private vehicles on streets includes a documentation project for percentage of streets taken up by parking, as well as a voluntary pledge by SMEs to reimburse all public transport and rideshare expenses by employees which began with our implementation of it for our employees.
Our Focus Areas
Urbanism and livability of cities • Sustainable transportation and urban mobility • Third spaces and community enrichment
Social policy, rights, and public welfare • Social fabric and civic responsibility • Quality education and human capital
Immigrant rights and anti-exploitation policies • Workers’ rights and wage theft • Happiness, well-being, and mental health
Efficient public service delivery • Information policy • Data usability and monitoring • Developing policy professionals
Follow us for updates on our work.
Contact us.
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M. Iris, 4th floor
Orchid Magu
Male’, Maldivesinfo@policylabmv.com
(960) 786-1232
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zayaan@policylabmv.com