New Maldivian media Act is consistent with democratic systems worldwide: Maldivian HC

By Yohan Perera

In reference to the enactment of the new Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulations Act No 16 of 2025, the Maldivian High Commission in Sri Lanka yesterday said that the new legislation is consistent with democratic systems worldwide and does not seek to suppress the rights of journalists.

“The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulations Act No 16 of 2025 modernises and strengthens media governance by consolidating the Maldives Media Council and Broadcasting Commission into a single independent body. It streamlines oversight, eliminates duplication and ensures greater accountability. The Commission is independent of the Executive. The majority of its members are directly elected by the media sector, while the remaining are appointed by Parliament. The Act introduces no criminal penalties. Journalists cannot face prosecution or imprisonment under this law. The Maldives’ approach is consistent with democratic systems worldwide. The act reflects both the Maldives’ constitution and international standards of press freedom, according to a press release.

The release from the High Commission said administrative measures under the new legislature apply only in cases where professional standards are clearly breached. The new commission cannot act arbitrarily, while any cancellation of a licence or a registration must be through a judicial decision, and any such decision is subject to an appeal in the court of law. Temporary actions such as halting a broadcast are limited to specific, defined circumstances of serious breaches and must follow due process.

Also, it was assured that the law does not apply to social media accounts used in a private capacity. The Act has been introduced to replace an outdated and fragmented system where two separate institutions often overlapped or conflicted in their roles. Unifying these institutions under one independent body, the law creates clarity, consistency and stronger protection for journalists and the public, the High Commission said.