Statement by the Government of Maldives on attempts to denigrate the religion of Islam 

28 October 2020

Maldives is deeply concerned about the increase in aggression and provocative rhetoric towards the religion of Islam and the beloved Prophet (ﷺ). Maldives categorically condemns such acts and deem them as none other than hate speech.

Efforts to denigrate Islam and the beloved Prophet (ﷺ) through derogatory remarks and blasphemous publications cannot be categorized as a reasonable exercise within the right of the freedom of expression.

As a democratic society built on the tenets of Islam, Maldives remains committed to upholding the freedom of expression as a fundamental human right.  Maldives is opposed to all forms of extremism, whether in the name of religion or the purported exercise of the right to freedom of expression.

Maldives condemns all acts of terrorism and is committed to combatting terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms. However, Maldives strongly refutes any attempt to link the peaceful religion of Islam with terrorism or violent extremism. Such a characterization is not only fundamentally flawed, but irresponsible. Maldives urges everyone to exercise respect and tolerance and resort to non-violent and non-provocative means in the exercise of their fundamental human rights. Maldives remains committed to working with the international community to promote peace and tolerance.