President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, officially bringing the new law into force on Thursday.
The bill, which was approved earlier this week during Parliament’s Sixth Special Session, is aimed at strengthening the country’s media sector while protecting press freedom.
According to the government, the Act is designed to promote a free and independent media environment, curb the spread of misinformation, and ensure constitutional rights are upheld through transparent regulatory mechanisms. It also outlines the rights and responsibilities of journalists and other media professionals.
One of the key changes introduced by the legislation is the establishment of a new regulatory authority to oversee both print and broadcast media. The law also simplifies the process for registering media outlets, aligning national standards more closely with global practices.
With the enactment of this law, existing media bodies will undergo major restructuring. The Maldives Media Council—previously formed under the Newspapers and Magazines Act and the Maldives Media Council Act—will be dissolved. Meanwhile, the Maldives Broadcasting Commission will be reorganized into the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission.
Until the new commission is formally established, an interim committee of five members appointed by the Civil Service Commission will carry out its functions.
