All newspapers and magazines operating in the Maldives have been granted a six-month period to update their information in the registry of the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission. This decision follows the enactment of the newly established “Regulation for the Registration of Newspapers and Magazines.” Under this regulation, all publications—including newspapers, magazines, journals, and newsletters—must be registered. This requirement applies to print media as well as digital platforms such as websites and social media outlets.
According to the new regulation, media registrations will be valid for a period of five years. The regulation also defines the procedures for registration renewal, the eligibility criteria for editors and publishers, and the guidelines for obtaining authorization to charge readership fees. Furthermore, all outlets are mandated to submit an annual report. The Media Commission has cautioned that the registration of any media outlet that fails to update its status within the specified six-month timeframe will be revoked.
