The U.S. Embassy in the Maldives has emphasized the importance of protecting freedom of expression, including opposition voices, following Parliament’s approval of the controversial Media Regulation Bill today.

In a statement posted on X, the Embassy stressed that freedom of expression is a fundamental right and must extend to journalists as well as dissenting and opposition voices.

The bill’s passage has drawn sharp criticism from journalists and opposition political parties, who argue it could silence those critical of the government.

In contrast, government officials have insisted that the legislation does not undermine press freedom and that restricting free expression is not government policy.