Thu Sep 18 00:26:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Maldives Passes Controversial Media Regulation Bill, Sparking Outcry over Press Freedom**

**Colombo – September 18, 2025** – The Maldivian Parliament, known as the People’s Majlis, has passed a new law regulating journalists and media institutions, igniting a firestorm of criticism from local and international media organizations and human rights advocates. The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulations Bill, passed on Tuesday, September 16th, aims to create a unified regulatory framework by replacing the Maldives Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission with a new Media and Broadcasting Commission.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the new commission will be an independent body with members elected by registered media entities and others nominated and appointed by the People’s Majlis.

However, critics argue the bill grants the commission excessive power, including the ability to impose steep fines, suspend media outlets, and block websites under investigation. Opposition members have denounced the law as an assault on press freedom.

Former Foreign Minister and President of the UNGA Abdulla Shahid accused President Mohamed Muizzu’s government of “declaring war” on free speech. “A government that silences journalists is a government that has lost the courage to face the truth,” he stated on social media.

Naif Ahmed, President of the Maldives Journalists Association, pointed to the government’s history of spreading misinformation, including during the recent election campaign, and expressed concern that the new regulations would stifle critical reporting on the economy and the nation’s relationship with India. The Maldives’ tourism-dependent economy is currently facing challenges due to high foreign debt and a significant fiscal deficit. A recent World Bank report projected a rise in inflation, exacerbating concerns about living costs, stagnant incomes, and unemployment.

Ahmed also lamented the lack of consultation with the media industry before the bill was pushed through, stating that it “opened a new door to internet censorship.”

Following President Muizzu’s victory in 2023, his People’s National Congress secured a super majority in parliament last year.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has condemned the legislation, asserting that it will “undermine the work of independent journalists and place the media under government control.”

The situation is being closely monitored by international press freedom organizations who worry about the implications for democratic governance and the free flow of information in the Maldives.

**About *The Hindu***

*The Hindu* is a leading Indian newspaper providing comprehensive coverage of national and international news, business, sports, science and technology, and culture.

Read More