As the Maldives joined the world in marking World Press Freedom Day, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu issued a strong call to protect journalists’ rights and build a safe environment for those committed to truthful reporting—while pointing to his administration’s record of unprecedented support for the country’s media sector.
In his official address, the President framed press freedom as the foundation upon which all other freedoms rest in the modern era. Human rights, sustainable development, and lasting peace and stability, he emphasised, are all inextricably linked to the freedom of the press.
“On this World Press Freedom Day, let us resolve to protect the rights of journalists and to build a safe environment for those who write truthfully and speak the truth,” the President declared.
A Government Investing in Media Like Never Before
President Muizzu highlighted that his administration is giving Maldivian media a level of attention and support that no previous government has ever matched—and that promises made to the media are being actively fulfilled.
Two landmark initiatives stand out. The first is the establishment of a dedicated Media Village, a purpose-built hub where Maldivian media outlets can operate. The President confirmed that the Media Village will open very soon, with its services soon becoming available to media organisations across the country.
The second is a transformative commitment to financial independence: a specific percentage of the state budget will be allocated to media organisations through a transparent, defined system. The goal, the President explained, is to create the conditions for an independent and self-sufficient Maldivian press—one that can operate without compromise.
“My government always welcomes constructive criticism aimed at holding the government accountable and maintaining transparency and good governance,” he affirmed.
Independent Media: Both a Right and a Responsibility
The President articulated a clear vision for the role of Maldivian media: a force that reveals the truth, upholds trust and integrity, and reinforces the principles and values that Maldivians hold dear.
He underscored that creating a favourable and safe environment for Maldivian journalists has been one of his highest priorities since the very first day of his presidency. He renewed his assurance that every right guaranteed to journalists by the Constitution will be protected at the highest level.
Maldives 2.0: A Brighter Future for Journalism
Looking ahead, the President drew attention to the increasingly close relationship between journalism and technology. As his Maldives 2.0 vision moves towards reality, he said, Maldivian journalists can expect an even more favourable working environment than they enjoy today.
This commitment, he noted, comes at a pivotal moment globally—a time of broad debate about how to connect the evolving relationships between journalism, technology, civil rights, and human rights.
“This is a time when debates are being held to find new solutions to the differences of opinion among journalists, digital rights defenders, technologists, policymakers, regulators, civil society organisations, academic institutions, researchers, youth leaders, and content creators,” the President observed.
To meet this moment, the government is undertaking practical work to establish information ecosystems that will benefit the future of journalism in the Maldives.
Building a Sustainable Future for Maldivian Journalists
President Muizzu emphasised that journalism should be a field offering young people a promising future—and a profession through which one can build a dignified life.
He acknowledged the unique challenges facing Maldivian media: “Due to the small population of the Maldives, there are many challenges to running media sustainably. Finding solutions to this, and creating opportunities to build an academically trained generation of media professionals who can keep pace with the resilient changes coming to the world, is the government’s aim.”
The Ethical Foundations of Free Expression
Turning to the principles underpinning responsible journalism, the President noted that Islam grants freedom of expression a high status, while also setting clear ethical limits.
“Islam emphasises adhering to ethical standards in expressing opinions, maintaining the general welfare of society, preserving peace and security, and protecting human dignity and honour,” he said.
Guarding Against the New Threat of Disinformation
The President closed with a sober warning about emerging dangers in the global information landscape. In an increasingly connected world, the spread of false information—and the weaponisation of deepfakes and artificial intelligence—demands heightened vigilance from journalists and the public alike.
“Given that this is the case, I remind you that we must be even more careful in providing accurate information and news to the public,” he urged.
“On this World Press Freedom Day, I once again call on everyone to work together to establish a free and safe Maldivian media.”
