In a historic step to strengthen press freedom, the Maldives has established a new Media and Broadcasting Commission under the Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act (Act 16/2025), ensuring full independence from political influence.

The seven-member body represents a pioneering model of self-regulation. Four members will be elected directly by the media sector, while three will be appointed by Parliament — with the Executive excluded entirely from the selection process. This framework guarantees impartiality and reinforces the principle that the press must regulate itself, not be dictated by government power.

Strict eligibility requirements safeguard professionalism. Commission members must hold relevant expertise, remain free of political office, and have no conflicts of interest with the sector they oversee. Any removal can only occur through parliamentary approval, and solely on legal grounds such as misconduct or loss of qualifications.

The Act also merges the Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission into one streamlined institution. Importantly, it abolishes criminal penalties against journalists, relying instead on transparent administrative remedies such as warnings, corrections, or fines — all subject to judicial appeal.

With this reform, the Maldives sets a strong precedent in the region: a press regulated not by politics, but by principles of independence, accountability, and professional integrity.

(This article was authored by Ahmed Ashraf, The Standard)