Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) has urged the public to respect journalistic ethics and refrain from personal attacks when exercising freedom of expression.

The commission issued the statement following criticism and abusive language directed at journalists on social media after they travelled to Dubai on a media tour organized by UAE-based developer Eagle Hills for its proposed Rasmale’ project.

The commission said harassment and intimidation of journalists, who serve as the fourth pillar of democracy, were unacceptable.

It also reminded media outlets and journalists that the Code of Conduct for Broadcasters, Media Workers and Journalists prohibits the publication or broadcast of obscene, defamatory or socially inappropriate words, actions and gestures.

“The Commission urges all parties to fully respect the Code of Conduct for Journalism and to act responsibly, free from personal attacks, in exercising the right to freedom of expression,” the statement said.

The commission has also filed a complaint over death threats made against a journalist who travelled to Dubai on the media tour.