Following public complaints regarding some unregistered outlets that continue to publish false information or misinformation, MMC has decided to draft a policy to allow them to better regulate such entities.
Maldives Media Council (MMC) has decided to draft a policy to outline ways in which unregistered media operating locally can be regulated.
The decision was made after the council announced that it has come to their notice that three such unregistered media outlets are currently active in spreading misinformation.
A statement released by the MMC said that they have received multiple complaints regarding the outlets titled 'Dhiyavaru', 'Kurusee' and 'Dhonamaa', alleging that these three platforms are spreading unconfirmed reports or, at times, direct misinformation, leading to distortion of truth amongst their audience.
MMC said that Article 36 of the Media Council's Regulations gives them the mandate to oversee all information sharing outlets as the article stipulates that both registered and unregistered websites that publish information, opinions and news are considered 'media'.
MMC asserted that they always stand by the provision of the right to freedom of expression to as wide an extent as is possible. However, spreading misinformation with no regard to facts, and no clarification from those concerned, cannot be accepted, they said.
The council noted the adverse effects that misinformation on sensitive topics has on society, resulting in lack of genuine knowledge amongst the public on many such issues.
MMC stated that, upon receiving those complaints, they have observed the publications on the concerned websites, and discovered for themselves that the sites, in fact, were responsible for publishing misinformation. The council is currently further investigating the matter, and said they will share their decisions upon conclusion.
"Many members of this council are of the belief that it is concerning that no action can be taken while an outlet is posing as 'media' while posting misinformation. Therefore, the commission has decided to draft up a policy to allow for proper regulation of unregistered outlets."
The Media Council said that this work will be conducted in the coming days with the collaboration of media outlets, relevant organizations, state institutions, and public opinion.
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