Episode 9: Youth-led research challenges Addu’s development narrative

In collaboration with Transparency Maldives, Project ThimaaVeshi has been studying how their community perceives the trade-offs between progress and conservation. Their research reveals the complexity of local attitudes - the desire for better infrastructure and economic opportunity, weighed against concerns about land reclamation, environmental degradation, and the loss of Addu’s unique ecosystems.

On this episode of Ithuru Vaahaka, they join us to share their findings, their vision for a more sustainable future, and why youth-led initiatives like theirs are essential in rethinking development.

0:34 - What is Project ThimaaVeshi?

2:00 - How was the social audit conceived?

3:00 - What was the methodology of the study?

4:38 - What did you explore? What perceptions and attitudes did you want to explore

6:10 - How does Adduans define the word "Tharaqqee"?

6:40 - "Development is a failed dream"

7:55 - The British presence

9:05 - The Convention Centre dilemma

11:05 - Resentment towards the central government

12:25 - "Development projects should take place regardless of the environmental damage!"

12:45 - "When it comes to Male' reclamation and tree cutting is okay but not for the rural areas?!"

13:40 - The Red Line

15:25 - Are Maldivian youth able to contextualise the effects of climate change?

16:08 - Needs assessments VS Vanity projects; Addu mass reclamation

17:25 - Superficial public consultations

18:30 - No employment in the city

19:20 - Development through an environmental lens