Reforms are paving the way for a vibrant media sector in the Maldives, but slow implementation lead to continuing violations against the media

After years of strict control over media and cracking down on dissidents, President Gayoom launched a reform process in June 2005 which has paved the way for a new generation of privately-owned media, some of which are in opposition to the government. Since then, progress on press freedom has been made, although examples of harassment and manipulation continue, with tensions between the political opposition and the government also ongoing.

Report: Media under pressure 

In May 2006, IMS participated in the International Press Freedom and Freedom of Expression Mission to the Maldives to assess the media situation and support ongoing lobbying and advocacy for freedom of expression. Together with the participating organisations, including Article 19, Reporters Without Borders, International Federation of Journalists and South Asia Media Commission, IMS published the findings in the report: "A Vibrant Media Under Pressure: An independent Assessment of Press Freedom in the Maldives" (July, 2006).

The mission found clear examples of harassment, intimidation and attacks against media practitioners. However, the mission also observed the opening up of the freedom of expression space including the steps taken by the government to engage in procedures for licensing and registration of private publications.

In early 2007, IMS supported a training course in professional ethics for independent and state-owned media in collaboration with the Maldives Ministry of Information and Sri Lanka Press Institute.

Slow reforms 

So far the promulgation of a media law has been delayed, but according to the Minister of Information progress concerning the media legislation will be seen before the elections planned in August 2008.

IMS has also supported the independent radio station, Radio Minivan. However, due to the manner in which licences were issued, the station was unable to obtain a license and in early 2008 decided to cease operations.

IMS sent a follow-up mission to the Maldives in December 2007 and continues to monitor the situation in the country. In this regard, IMS will closely follow the August 2008 elections.