Advocacy group Women & Democracy has strongly condemned the passage of the Media Broadcasting Bill by the People's Majlis, warning that the legislation poses a serious threat to press freedom and democratic governance in the Maldives.

In a sharply worded statement, the organization described the bill as “a cowardly act” by the current administration, aimed squarely at silencing independent journalism and curtailing freedom of expression. Women & Democracy characterized the move as a dangerous escalation in government efforts to control the media landscape and suppress dissenting voices.

One of the group’s chief concerns lies in the legislation’s drafting process, which they criticized for its lack of transparency and public consultation. According to the statement, the legislation was rushed through parliament without meaningful engagement from journalists, media professionals, or civil society organizations. The group noted that numerous stakeholders raised objections during the process, but those concerns were systematically ignored.

The organization also condemned the excessive use of force by police during peaceful protests against the bill. Particular attention was drawn to the treatment of female journalists, who Women and Democracy say were disproportionately targeted by law enforcement.

Women and Democracy underscored the vital role that female journalists play in the Maldivian media sector, both in amplifying underrepresented voices and in bringing critical gender issues to the forefront. Silencing them, the group argues, undermines the plurality and inclusivity that a functioning democracy requires.

The organization has called for the immediate withdrawal of the bill and urged President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to refrain from ratifying it. They stressed that press freedom is a cornerstone of democratic society and warned that restricting it would mark a dangerous erosion of fundamental rights in the Maldives.