Journalist: Umair Nawshad Photography: Zamil Shafeek
Maldives High Commission Briefs Media on New Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act
Colombo: The High Commission of Maldives today held a press briefing with media professionals to outline the key features of the newly enacted Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act (Act No. 16/2025), which aims to modernise the country’s media governance framework.
The law consolidates the Maldives Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission into a single independent body, streamlining regulation and ensuring greater transparency and accountability. According to officials, this unified system eliminates duplication, reinforces professional standards, and strengthens public trust in journalism.
A major highlight of the Act is its protection of press freedom. Unlike previous laws, it removes the risk of criminal penalties, meaning journalists cannot be prosecuted or imprisoned under its provisions. All sanctions will remain administrative, ranging from warnings and corrections to fines, with every decision open to judicial review.
The new Commission is designed to be independent of the Executive, with a majority of members (four out of seven) elected by the media sector itself, and the remaining three appointed by Parliament. The President and Government will have no role in appointments or removals, ensuring neutrality in decision-making.
Officials stressed that the Commission does not have arbitrary powers. Suspensions or cancellations of licenses can only occur through court decisions, while temporary measures—such as halting a broadcast—are allowed only in serious cases and must follow due process.
The Act also embeds strong safeguards for journalists’ rights, including the right to respond to complaints, access to legal counsel, transparent investigations, and the right to appeal in court. Investigations must adhere to principles of fairness, accountability, and freedom of expression, as enshrined in the Constitution.
Importantly, the law does not regulate personal social media accounts, except where such platforms are used to function as media outlets.
Officials noted that the law reflects international best practices, aligning with democratic systems worldwide where independent regulators operate without criminal penalties for journalists.
The Act was introduced to replace the outdated dual-institution system, which often led to overlap and conflict between the Maldives Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission. The new framework provides clarity, consistency, and stronger protections for both journalists and the public.
“The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act enhances media independence, safeguards journalists, and guarantees the public’s right to accurate and reliable information,” officials said, adding that it represents a significant step forward for press freedom in the Maldives.
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