President Muizzu Seeks Foreign Expertise to Criminalize Bullying in New Statute

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the government is seeking foreign legal counsel to help draft a comprehensive statute that will officially criminalize bullying in the Maldives. The initiative aims to classify bullying as a formal criminal offense, ensuring that perpetrators face stringent legal consequences. The Attorney General’s Office is leading the legislative process, which the President first disclosed during a press conference in late April. Speaking on the fifth episode of 'The Pulse' podcast series, President Muizzu emphasized that the administration is taking all necessary measures to combat bullying, with this new legislation serving as the cornerstone of their strategy. The drafting process is being conducted in close consultation with technical experts and key stakeholders. Beyond legal penalties, the President highlighted the need for a community-wide effort to address the root causes of bullying. He asserted that legal measures must be paired with holistic health initiatives and accessible psychological support to protect victims and rehabilitate offenders. To support this broader mental health framework, the administration is working to strengthen the National Mental Health Helpline and expand psychiatric services. President Muizzu noted that Aasandha, the national health insurance scheme, continues to provide vital relief by covering mental health treatments. Furthermore, the government is developing a new specialized facility while upgrading psychiatric services at existing hospitals across the country. The proposed law will not only define criminal penalties but also establish clear regulatory frameworks and mandatory reporting requirements. In a bid to prevent bullying before it starts, the government plans to integrate educational materials regarding the practice into school curricula nationwide.