The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) has introduced a regulation to accredit journalists covering events, aimed at ensuring they receive necessary protection from security forces while carrying out their duties.

The regulation seeks to uphold press freedom guaranteed under the Constitution, while supporting the right to peaceful assembly. It provides a legal framework to facilitate journalists’ work, including wider access to event sites and clear procedures for accreditation.

The Commission said the measure is intended to create a more enabling environment for journalists, ensuring both protection and cooperation from relevant authorities. It also aims to provide equal opportunities for all media organisations covering events.

Accreditation will be issued for one year to local media representatives, three months to international media, and six months to freelance journalists.

Accredited journalists will be granted several privileges under the regulation. These include special protection from security forces, access to areas where situations may be volatile, and improved access to information from authorities.

The regulation also sets out conditions under which accreditation may be revoked. These include cases where the holder requests termination, where false information was submitted during the application process, where a court issues a criminal conviction against the individual, or where the relevant registration or licence is revoked.