The Maldives has slipped four positions in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), raising fresh concerns about the state of media freedom in the country.
According to the annual index published on April 30, the Maldives now ranks 108th out of 180 countries, down from 104th in 2025. The country’s overall score has also declined from 52.46 to 49.23, placing it in the “problematic” category for press freedom.
Sharp Decline in Key Indicators
The drop was particularly noticeable in several areas:
- Political Indicator: Fell from 123rd to 129th
- Economic Indicator: Plunged 39 places
- Legal Indicator: Also showed a decline
RSF highlighted mounting pressure on independent media, the impact of controversial new media regulations, and recent actions taken against journalists as key factors behind the decline.
Controversial Media Law Under Scrutiny
A major reason cited for the drop is the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, passed in August 2025 without adequate consultation with media stakeholders. The law merged the Maldives Media Council and Broadcasting Commission into a single body with broad powers, raising fears of reduced independence and potential censorship.
Critics argue that the new commission has sweeping authority to impose sanctions and restrict content, which has created a more restrictive environment for journalists.
Adhadhu Case Adds to Concerns
The ranking comes amid heightened tensions following the police raid on independent news outlet Adhadhu in late April. The raid was linked to the outlet’s investigative documentary “Aisha,” which contained serious allegations against President Mohamed Muizzu.
Equipment was seized, travel bans were imposed on senior staff, and journalists faced legal action — developments that drew strong criticism from local and international media freedom organisations.
Government Response and Reactions
The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) described the decline as alarming and called on the government to take immediate steps to improve the situation, including halting legal actions against Adhadhu and reviewing the controversial media law.
Some government supporters argue that the index does not fully reflect the reality on the ground and that measures taken were necessary to address defamation and maintain social stability.
This is the lowest ranking the Maldives has received in several years, continuing a gradual downward trend observed since 2022.
As global press freedom reaches a 25-year low according to RSF, the Maldives’ decline adds to growing concerns about media independence in South Asia and beyond.
