UMAIR NAUSHAD
COLOMBO : The Maldivian High Commission in Sri Lanka on Monday, Sept.22 hosted a press briefing at its premises, led by Ambassador Ahamed Shiaan, Secretary Multilateral at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the presence of its High Commissioner Masood Imad.
The briefing focused on the newly enacted Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act (Act No. 16/2025), a landmark reform designed to modernise the country’s media governance framework.
The Act consolidates the Maldives Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission into a single independent body, streamlining oversight and strengthening transparency and accountability. Officials explained that the unified system eliminates duplication, reinforces professional standards, and builds greater public trust in journalism.
A major highlight of the Act is its strong protection of press freedom. Unlike earlier regulations, it eliminates criminal penalties for journalists, ensuring that no member of the media can be prosecuted or imprisoned under this law. Instead, sanctions will remain administrative—ranging from warnings and corrections to fines—with all decisions open to judicial review.
The new Commission will be independent of the Executive, with four of its seven members directly elected by the media sector and the remaining three appointed by Parliament. Neither the President nor the Government will have a role in appointments or removals, ensuring neutrality and independence in its functioning.
Officials further clarified that the Commission does not hold arbitrary powers. License suspensions or cancellations can only be enacted through a judicial decision, while temporary actions such as halting a broadcast are allowed only in serious breaches and must follow due process.
The Act embeds strong safeguards for journalists’ rights, guaranteeing the right to respond to complaints, access legal representation, and appeal decisions in court. Investigations are required to uphold principles of fairness, accountability, and freedom of expression, in line with the Maldives Constitution.
It was also emphasized that personal social media accounts are not covered by the law, unless they operate in the capacity of media outlets.
According to officials, the legislation is aligned with international best practices, mirroring democratic systems worldwide where independent regulators ensure press freedom without criminal liability.
The Act replaces the outdated dual-institution model, which often resulted in overlap and conflict between the Maldives Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission. By creating a unified framework, it offers clarity, consistency, and stronger protections for 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 the law marks a significant milestone for press freedom in the Maldives.pics by MS SALEEM
