Minister fails to answer when questioned on whether executing projects without environmental consideration constitutes a double standard

Environment Minister Ali Shareef was unable to provide an answer when questioned whether it constitutes a double standard for the Maldives to advocate for environmental protection on the international stage while simultaneously executing domestic projects without regard for the environment.

During a press conference held at the President's Office on Tuesday, a journalist from RaajjeTV questioned the Minister regarding the government's alleged violations of environmental laws. It was noted that while the law mandates an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report be completed before any project commences, several projects have reportedly begun without them. Specifically, it was highlighted that the land reclamation projects in HA. Hoarafushi and HA. Thuraakunu were initiated without any publicly available EIA reports.

Concerns have surfaced regarding the current administration's repeated amendments to environmental regulations, which allow government-led projects to proceed under special permits. It was noted that while these domestic practices continue, the Maldives remains a vocal advocate for environmental protection on the international stage and continues to sign global cooperation agreements. Consequently, the Minister was questioned on whether this discrepancy constitutes a double standard.

However, Minister Shareef did not provide a direct answer to that question. Instead, he stated that he does not believe the project would have commenced without completing the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. Referring to the mention of Hoarafushi and Thuraakunu, the Minister noted that the involvement of specific islands would require further verification. He added that initiating a project without an EIA assessment would constitute a violation.

Furthermore, the Minister stated that he was uncertain whether Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports are currently open for public comment.

I will need to look into the specifics regarding those two islands. However, I find it highly unlikely that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would allow work to commence without completing the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. It is difficult for me to fully accept the assertion that the EIA phase has not been finalized. If work has indeed begun without a formal decision statement, those responsible will be held accountable. Nevertheless, I will double-check the matter to confirm the details.

Environment Minister Ali Shareef.

The Minister’s remarks come amid persistent concerns and complaints regarding the government’s failure to complete Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for several launched projects. It has been specifically noted that the government frequently bypasses the EIA process for projects initiated in the lead-up to elections.