Crucial human rights bills are being neglected, says the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM).

In a public message to mark International Human Rights Day, HRCM's President Aminath Enas noted the various accomplishments made this year, to improve the rights of Maldivians.

However, Enas emphuasized that important bills 'are still being neglected,' including the juvenile justice bill, the bill on children's' rights, and the witness protection bill.

She also highlighted the importance of the three powers of the State on protecting the constitutional rights of citizens.

"Maldivians have always adhered to Islamic principles of respecting and living peacefully with each other," she said, adding that she is 'saddened' to see a quite different picture in the community 'now'.

She said there has been a rise in anti-social behavior such as 'intimidation, defamation, and creating distrust in the community,' as well as 'threats to people's lives'.

Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December – the day the United Nations General Assembly, in 1948, adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.