Archive · 17 Sep 2025
Maldives Passes Media Bill, Raising Press Freedom Concerns
The Maldives government made a new law about news called the Media and Broadcasting Regulations Bill.
This law gives the government more power over news, including fining outlets or blocking websites.
Many people, including journalists, are worried this might stop them from writing freely.
They fear the government wants to control the news, especially questions about the economy or the country's relationship with India.
The new law replaces old media rules with a new commission to watch over the media.
Some members are chosen by media, but others are appointed by the Parliament.
The Maldives Parliament passed the Media and Broadcasting Regulations Bill.
The bill establishes a new Media and Broadcasting Commission.
The Commission can impose fines, suspend media outlets, and block websites.
Critics, including journalists and opposition, fear the bill will curb press freedom.
The government says the bill seeks a unified regulatory framework.
- Who
- Maldivian Parliament
- What
- Passed the Media and Broadcasting Regulations Bill
- When
- Tuesday
- Where
- Maldives
- Why
- Government seeks to create a unified regulatory framework; critics cite potential for censorship.
Critics of the Bill
Government Supporters
Press Freedom
Critics of the Bill
The bill undermines press freedom and independent journalism.
Government Supporters
The bill aims to create a unified regulatory framework.
Government Control
Critics of the Bill
The government will have excessive control over the media.
Government Supporters
The bill will allow the government to oversee the media.
- Bill Name
- Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulations Bill
- Regulatory Body
- Media and Broadcasting Commission
- Commission Composition
- 7 members
- Commission Appointment
- 4 elected by media, 3 appointed by Parliament
- Possible Penalties
- Fines, suspension of media outlets, blocked websites
