Changes to Articles 3(a) and 3(b) introduce stricter requirements for border modifications, now requiring approval from three-fourths of Parliament, up from two-thirds, as well as a public referendum with the support of 143,332 citizens. Previously, no public referendum was required.

Article 251(c) has been revised to mandate unanimous parliamentary approval for any military use of Maldivian territory by non-nationals, except for military exercises conducted under contractual terms. The previous clause only required parliamentary approval for the development of military establishments.

Additionally, A new provision in Article 262(b) now requires a public referendum to secure public approval for laws altering the country’s territory or for constitutional amendments passed by Parliament.

The amendments, passed by Parliament on November 20, 2024, aim to enhance national security, safeguard sovereignty, and strengthen public empowerment.