The United Kingdom has begun implementing the framework adopted against the Maldives by the European Union last Monday.

Following EU's decision UK's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation, run by Her Majesty's Treasury, issued a notice on July 19.

Noting that "no individuals or entities have been included in Annex I of the [EU Council's] Regulation" the notice highlighted that "no further action is required at this time".

The Council of the European Union adopted the said framework on July 16, which allows for the freezing of funds and economic resources of certain persons, entities and bodies responsible for serious human rights violations in the Maldives, as well as persons, entities and bodies associated with them 'if the situation [in the country] does not improve'.

UK is the first nation to begin implementing this framework.

The European Union's decision is a direct follow up to the Council's conclusion on 26th February where targeted measures against senior government officials were first indicated, highlighting that the situation in Maldives is "not in accordance with principles of democratic value and separation of powers".

While the Maldives is preparing for September’s election, the EU had previously expressed concern that it will neither be free nor fair.