Media Commission Gains Authority to Fine Outlets for Regulatory Violations

The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) has enacted new regulations granting it the authority to penalize media outlets that repeatedly violate established rules and professional standards. The new framework, titled “Regulation on the Investigation of Complaints and Cases Submitted to the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission and the Imposition of Measures,” establishes a structured process for investigating complaints and implementing legal sanctions. According to the MMBC, the regulation is designed to ensure that investigations are conducted within a fair and transparent system. It outlines the specific procedures for receiving complaints and the subsequent steps the Commission will take to resolve cases under the Maldives Media and Broadcasting regulatory framework. Broadcasters face the steepest penalties under the new rules. Those found in repeated violation of standards can be fined between USD 3,235 and USD 16,173. In more severe instances—specifically where content is deemed harmful to Islam, national security, public health, or public order—the Commission can coordinate with state institutions to halt broadcasts. With a court order and law enforcement support, the MMBC may also seize equipment used to provide those broadcasting services. Print media, including newspapers and magazines, are subject to similar oversight. Repeated publication of unlawful content can result in fines ranging from USD 323 to USD 6,469. Like broadcasters, print outlets may have their dissemination stopped if their material is found to threaten national security, public order, public health, or the tenets of Islam. Beyond corporate penalties, the regulation extends to individual media practitioners. The Commission can now mandate that individuals issue public apologies, publish corrections, or retract specific content. Failure to comply with these directives may lead to stricter penalties at the Commission's discretion. To ensure accountability, the MMBC is required to maintain a comprehensive record of all parties against whom action has been taken. These regulations officially come into force following their publication in the Government Gazette.