In the idyllic island nation of more than 500,000 people, the 2008 Maldives Constitution declares resolutely that Islam is the state religion.

Citizens may not practice or follow any religion other than Islam. Maldivians face immense pressure, scrutiny, and harassment if they convert to Christianity. In fact, leaving Islam is punishable by death or significant monetary fines.

Non-Maldivian citizens can practice non-Muslim religious practices in private homes. In September 2025, new media and freedom-of-speech laws were enacted.

The effect of these laws is now being felt, particularly for any secret local believers or non-Maldivian Christians. These laws state that any broadcast or communication that threatens Islam, national security, public health, or the general public’s well-being may be punished by public apologies, fines, or warnings.

These new laws directly affect the cornerstone freedoms of belief, conscience, and religion in the Maldives. These new media laws are yet another wave of religious restrictions on non-Muslims in this beautiful and popular tourist destination.