Male: The Maldivian Red Crescent (MRC) has announced the launch of a migrants’ relief fund to alleviate difficulties faced by expatriates in the country amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking at a press conference held by the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), MRC President Ali Nashid stated that members of the public would be able to contribute to the fund until the end of May via the donate button on their website or by transferring payments to the listed bank accounts.

MRC Secretary-General Fathimath Himya said MRC would regularly declare information concerning the total amount collected as well as details on how the money is spent. She noted that MRC would only assume responsibility for funds sent to their accounts.

She urged the public to exercise caution regarding any possible scams designed to steal money under the guise of MRC's fund.

Furthermore, Nashid reiterated MRC's concern over the condition of expatriates' accommodation in the capital city of Male, describing some residences as 'unfit for human habitation'.

He highlighted the necessity of ensuring adequate housing for all in the aftermath of the pandemic and called on citizens to support vulnerable individuals.

"A society's safety can only be ensured by guaranteeing protection for its most vulnerable members," he said.

The COVID-19 outbreak in the capital has disproportionately affected the expatriate population, the majority of whom are Bangladeshi nationals living in highly congested quarters where it is impossible to reduce contact or exercise social distancing. Their often small-spaced living conditions have been described by local and international civil society organizations as, "claustrophobic", "unsanitary" and "overcrowded".