Gov't funds media with 0.1% revenue, backs regulation bill

The government has gazetted a regulation committing 0.1 percent of the estimated state revenue to registered private media outlets, effective from this year onwards.

This allocation, excluding grants and new revenue increases, fulfills a presidential promise by Dr. Mohamed Muizzu aimed at promoting media and journalism.

The initiative stems from a conference held on November 13, 2023, where President Muizzu assured media stakeholders of his commitment to address their challenges and provide financial assistance. The new regulation outlines transparent and accountable procedures for applying for these funds, marking a first for the Maldivian media landscape.

However, alongside this financial pledge, a controversial bill titled the "Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act" has been introduced in parliament by independent MP Abdul Hannan Abubakr, who reportedly has close ties to the government.

This bill proposes the creation of a media regulatory commission, with three of its seven members, including the Chairman, to be appointed by the President. The proposed commission would wield significant powers to penalize violations of its directives, including substantial fines, website blocking, and even the cancellation of media registration.

Journalists' associations and the opposition have swiftly criticized the bill, labeling it an infringement on press freedom. Despite being introduced by an independent member, the government, which holds a supermajority in parliament, has expressed its support for the legislation.