EU expresses concern over growing fear in Maldives

The European Union (EU) has expressed concern over the factors contributing to a climate of growing fear in the Maldives.

In a statement issued today, the EU said, “The EU Heads of Mission, the Ambassador of Norway and the Charge d'Affaires a.i. of Switzerland are very concerned about the recent reports of attacks, intimidation and death threats faced by journalists, politicians, human rights campaigners and representatives of civil society, and by the mounting gang related violence and signs of increasing religious intolerance, which are all contributing to a climate of growing fear in the Maldives and reducing the space for public discussion.”

The statement also highlighted the Supreme Court's initiation of a suo moto court case against members of the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM), and said that this case risks undermining the independence of the HRCM, a key democratic institution.

The EU called upon Maldivian authorities to create a safe and enabling environment in which citizens and institutions can operate freely in full respect of their constitutional rights.