International media watchdogs have expressed deep concerns regarding the newly proposed media legislation in the Maldives, cautioning that the bill could severely restrict journalistic freedom and independence. Critics argue that the draft law includes ambiguous clauses that may grant excessive regulatory powers to government authorities, potentially leading to censorship and intimidation of journalists. The bill’s vague language on defamation and national security, in particular, risks being exploited to silence dissenting voices and critical reporting.

The proposed framework mandates rigorous licensing requirements and introduces strict penalties for offenses that remain poorly defined. Observers warn this could trigger…