MJA to Hold Public Forum Tonight on Media Bill Concerns

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) will host a public forum this evening to outline concerns over the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill currently before parliament.

The forum will begin at 8:45 p.m. at Artificial Beach, with speakers from the legal profession and authors scheduled to present. Attendees will also have the opportunity to share their views during an open mic session.

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While journalists, media outlets, and international organisations have voiced opposition to the bill, parliament—dominated by a government supermajority—plans to approve it. Government supporters have also promoted the legislation on social media.

The bill has been rejected by the Maldives Media Council (MMC), which has called for its withdrawal from parliament. 

The stage is almost set for 'Hiyaalaai Fikuru Kafunah', our open mic forum. We invite everyone to come and speak your mind tonight!
📍 Artificial Beach
⏱️ 2045 hrs#MavesIn #ctrlbillbeyrukurey pic.twitter.com/JdrsBDTm7H— Maldives Journalists Association (@mjamaldives) September 13, 2025

Journalists have been actively raising awareness about the event at public locations over the past week, including talking to individuals about their concerns as well as passing out flyers to the public about the bill.

Earlier this month, the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) submitted a petition signed by 151 journalists from 41 media outlets, calling on the President and parliament to reject the Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill.

Launched on 25 August, the petition urges lawmakers to dismiss the bill submitted by independent MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru of the Thulhaadhoo constituency. The proposed legislation has drawn criticism from both local and international media over concerns that it could restrict freedom of speech and expression in the Maldives.