ABSTRACT
A 100% Muslim country, the Maldives has struggled to overcome the dichotomy of its tourist industry and all its attendant practices that are seemingly at odds with Islam. The Maldives is the wealthiest country in South Asia with a per capita GDP on par with Mexico or Argentina. The challenges the Maldives faces are deep and extend well beyond the political turmoil that has existed for decades. Indeed, long-standing neglect on the part of the government in key areas like education, housing, employment, and justice have led to extensive disillusionment – especially among young people – and in many cases an unraveling of the social fabric. The Maldives has struggled with terrorism and violent extremism since the Sultan Park bombing in 2007. The geographically dispersed nature of the islands creates challenges for the ministry in helping island communities understand the differences in the various ideological branches of Islam.
