Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has emphasised President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration’s steadfast commitment to supporting journalists, addressing their needs and aspirations.

In an interview with PSM news on its 7th anniversary and in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day, Vice President Hussain Mohamed highlighted the administration’s awareness of the challenges faced by journalists, noting President Muizzu’s proactive engagement with them upon assuming office.

Furthermore, Vice President stressed the importance of public trust in the current administration’s ability to effectively address journalists’ concerns, particularly on World Press Freedom Day. He further reiterated that while journalism may not be explicitly delineated in the constitution, it serves as the country’s “fourth power” and urged responsible reporting avoiding misleading information, anticipating positive societal changes with these efforts.

In support of journalist’s financial independence, Vice President confirmed the formulation of a policy allocating a specific percentage of the state budget to them and the resolution of land plots for establishing a special media village.

Additionally, Vice President met with PSM news employees.

Source(s): PsmNews

World Press Freedom Index is an annual ranking of 180 nations – compiled by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) – based on the level of freedom enjoyed by journalists and media personnel in those nations.

Maldives, which ranked 100 in the WPFD last year with a score of 56.93, has dropped down 106^th, scoring 52.36. This marks a slip from the classification of nations where its ‘Problematic’ to practice journalism to nations where its ‘Difficult’ to practice journalism.

RSF has attributed the ratification of the Evidence Bill into law including the provision which allows courts to compel journalists to disclose their sources in some circumstances as the main reason for the drop in the rank.

RSF utilizes five indicators in compiling the WPFI. Maldives have been scored as follows in the respective fields:

• Political indicator: 109^th place with 43.48. This accounts to a drop of 12 ranks as Maldives placed 97^th with 53.75 last year.
• Economic indicator: 133^rd place with 36.04. This accounts to an increase of 28 ranks as Maldives placed 161^st last year with 32.84. It is the only indicator in which Maldives improved its score.
• Legislative indicator: 111^th place with 54.42. This accounts to a drop of 13 ranks as Maldives placed 98^th last year with 59.01.
• Social indicator: 131^st with place with 48,10. This accounts to a drop of 7 ranks as Maldives placed 124^th last year with 55.68.
• Security indicator: 80^th place with 79.79. This accounts to a drop of 23 ranks as Maldives placed 57^th last year with 82.48.

Notably, Maldives placed 87^th in the WPFD in 2022; classified as a nation where it is “Satisfactory” to practice journalism.

Source(s): sun.mv

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reiterated his commitment to uphold a sustainable environment for all forms of journalism, adapting alongside modern technological advancements.

Commemorating the World Press Freedom Day, President Dr. Muizzu conveyed felicitations to all media organisations, recognising the pivotal role media plays for the development and progress of the nation. The president observed the relentless endeavours of journalists in sourcing and sharing reliable information, heightening public consciousness, acting as a bridge between the government and the public, addressing public inquiries to the government while amplifying the voices of citizens.

Furthermore, President Dr. Muizzu revealed his top priority on engaging in meetings and dialogues with journalists. The president assured that the opinions of journalists will be taken in to consideration, aiming to align the expectations of media outlets meets with that of reality.

Observing that financial constraints as a primary challenge faced by the media, the government has taken the initiative to allocate a portion of the budget to support media organisations. President Dr. Muizzu expressed confidence that this initiative will be implemented soon, pending approval from Parliament. Moreover, the presiden unveiled plans to establish a Media Village tailored to accommodate media administrative bodies, enhance educational and training prospects across various domains, and bolster connections with international organisations.

Additionally, President Dr. Muizzu stressed the significance of the provision of credible information, cautioning that it will negatively impact the society otherwise.

Source(s): PsmNews