IFJ Condemns Controversial Maldives Media Bill, Calls for Immediate Withdrawal
Journalists protesting in parliament while the “Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation” bill was debated today, August 19, 2025 | Photo: MP for Kendhoo constituency, Mauroof Zakir’s X account
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has criticised the proposed “Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation” bill, calling for its immediate withdrawal, citing concerns over press freedom and excessive regulatory powers.
In a press release yesterday, the IFJ described the bill as “controversial,” warning it would create a new super media regulator with sweeping punitive authority over journalists and media outlets.
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The legislation, introduced by MP Abdul Hannan Abubakr, proposes dissolving the Maldives Media Council (MMC) and the Maldives Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom) and replacing them with a single “Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission.” The new body would be granted powers to fine journalists between MVR 5,000 and 25,000 (USD 325–1,620) and media organisations up to MVR 100,000 (USD 6,490) for breaches of as-yet-undrafted rules. It would also have the authority to suspend media registrations during investigations, block newspaper websites, and halt broadcasts.
#Maldives🇲🇻: A media bill has been proposed to create a new highly concentrated regulatory body, with excessive power and draconian measures of punishment. We join @mjamaldives in condemning this bill, which violates press freedom and undermines democracy. https://t.co/imzpL7Ld4d— IFJ (@IFJGlobal) August 20, 2025
The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) organised a protest on 19 August, denouncing the bill as a “grave threat” to press freedom. The MJA highlighted that the bill contains “vaguely defined terms that are ripe for abuse” and imposes draconian penalties for journalists, raising fears that independent reporting could be criminalised.
A similar bill was first tabled in the People’s Majlis in November 2024 but was withdrawn after strong opposition from the local media. The latest version proposes a seven-member commission, comprising three presidential appointees and four members nominated by the media sector, with the chair appointed by the President. MJA argue this structure risks undermining the body’s independence, particularly as parliamentary no-confidence votes could remove media-elected members.
The MJA emphasised that the bill was drafted without consultation with journalists, unions, or media outlets.
“Regulating the media requires genuine industry consultation and engagement. Bypassing such engagement with journalists and their unions shows a fundamental misunderstanding of the ultimate purpose of such a body: to strengthen journalism and safeguard democracy and press freedom,” The IFJ said.
The bill is currently under parliamentary consideration, with media groups and opposition parties continuing to push for its withdrawal.
