Maldives has fallen 13 ranks on the World Press Freedom Index, placing it in the category of countries with problematic issues regarding journalistic independence.
The country has dropped from the 87th to the 100th position, according to the report released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
Maldives has fallen from the 87th country to the 100th country according to the World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
Maldives had gone down in the rankings in the past two years as well.
Mihaaru News reported that according to Daniel Bastard, Director of Asia-Pacific at RSF, Maldives had fallen in the rankings in the past two years, mainly due to the lack of strength in upholding President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's policies. He also noted that President Solih had not fulfilled all his pledges made during his campaign in support of press freedom, which has contributed to Maldives falling behind in the rankings.
One major source of concern is the law passed last year that mandates journalists to reveal their sources. Although amendments to the law have been proposed, there is still concern that journalists may be required to reveal their sources, Daniel said. He also expressed concern over the lack of justice for the disappearance of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and the murder of blogger Yameen Rasheed.
While there have been advances in terms of press freedom in the Maldives during the current administration's time in office. In 2018, the Maldives was ranked 120th due to the Defamation Law implemented during former President Abdulla Yameen's administration. However, the country's ranking improved to 72nd in 2021. Over the course of the past two years, Maldives has fallen in the rankings again.
Maldives Journalists Association's (MJA) President Ali Rifshan said that despite the government's commitment to promoting press freedom, it appears that they have neglected their responsibilities at some point during the presidential term.
Rifshan called for amending the Evidence Act to protect journalists from being compelled to reveal their sources, and emphasized the importance of ensuring that journalism is free from financial influence. He also stressed the need for a national policy to protect journalists and journalism in the country.
Rifshan had also expressed his concern over the delays in obtaining justice for journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rasheed, who were abducted during the former administration's time in office.
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