Defamation Bill
Maldives condemned by UN and others over defamation law
The UN, US and human rights groups have urged the Maldivian government to scrap or amend a law re- criminalising defamation over restrictions it imposes on free speech and the press.
10 Aug 2016, 9:00 AM
Maldives ‘defamation law’ to curtail freedom of expression
Azra Naseem dissects the government-proposed bill to recriminalise defamation. “To start with, direct full-frontal assault on the right to freedom of expression,” she writes.
09 Aug 2016, 9:00 AM
MPs propose tougher restrictions on press ahead of vote on defamation bill
PPM MPs have proposed tougher restrictions on the press in a revised version of a controversial bill seeking to recriminalize defamation, disregarding a ground swell of opposition from journalists, human rights groups and the international community.
09 Aug 2016, 9:00 AM
Maldives MPs vote to restrict free speech
Some 47 MPs approved today a bill that imposes severe restrictions on free speech and press freedom.
09 Aug 2016, 9:00 AM
Maldives ‘rejects’ international criticism of defamation bill
The defamation bill “does not seek to criminalise free speech,” the government insists, claiming that it would “provide a layer of protection for those who may fall victim to scurrilous and defamatory articles and to ensure that such comment does not impact upon issues of religious sentiment or national security.”
02 Aug 2016, 9:00 AM
Majlis proceeds with criminalising defamation
The ruling party-dominated parliament voted today to accept a bill on criminalising defamation and restricting free speech, disregarding forceful international criticism and a free speech campaign by local journalists.
01 Aug 2016, 9:00 AM
Defamation bill draws international criticism
The revised defamation bill is a “serious setback for freedom of speech in the Maldives,” said the US, UK, EU, Germany, Norway and the Netherlands in a strongly worded joint statement.
01 Aug 2016, 9:00 AM
Defamation bill on Majlis agenda as free speech campaign gains momentum
A group of journalists launched a campaign last week to raise awareness about the dangers posed by the proposed law, warning that it would spell the end of a free press as well as freedom of expression in the Maldives.
31 Jul 2016, 9:00 AM
Police block journalists’ silent protest
Specialist Operations police officers blocked a protest march staged by journalists against a defamation bill currently before parliament. The journalists were told they would not be allowed to protest in the streets of Malé while carrying banners and placards.
28 Jul 2016, 9:00 AM