The Government’s Chief Spokesperson, Mohamed Hussain Shareef, has stated that the Maldives’ recent drop in global press freedom rankings is not attributable to Government actions alone.

Speaking at a press briefing today, Shareef addressed concerns over the Maldives falling four places in the latest Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders. He noted that some media figures have suggested the decline reflects Government performance, but rejected this view.

Shareef emphasised that the index does not assess Government conduct alone. He explained that broader factors, including the overall media environment, professional standards, and the relationship between journalists and institutions, also influence rankings. He added that journalists themselves share responsibility in upholding press freedom.

While acknowledging that any decline in the index is undesirable, Shareef stressed that improving media standards would enhance the country’s international standing. He called for collective efforts to strengthen journalism, noting that progress in press freedom benefits the nation as a whole rather than any individual or political group.

He further pointed out that fluctuations in rankings can sometimes result from comparative shifts, such as improvements by other countries, rather than a direct deterioration in domestic conditions.

Shareef also recognised the role of international organisations such as Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders, describing them as influential bodies that should be engaged with constructively and held accountable where necessary.