New Title: Current Situation in Maldives - What You Need to Know

The Maldives is a paradise on earth that attracts millions of tourists every year with its picturesque beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts. However, the country has been experiencing political unrest and economic challenges in recent years. This article will provide an overview of the current situation in Maldives and the things you need to know before planning a trip there.

The Political Crisis

The Maldives has been in a political crisis since the ouster of the country's first democratically elected President Mohamed Nasheed in 2012. Following the 2018 presidential elections, the opposition candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, defeated the incumbent president, Abdulla Yameen, in a historic victory. Despite the promising start, the new government has faced several challenges, including the resistance from the opposition-led parliament and the judiciary, which is still controlled by Yameen's loyalists.

The coronavirus pandemic has further exacerbated the situation, with the government struggling to control the spread of the virus and its economic fallout. Many Maldivians have lost their jobs in the tourism sector, and the government is facing a severe budget deficit.

The State of Emergency

In February 2018, President Yameen declared a state of emergency, citing a threat to national security and arresting several opposition leaders, including former President Nasheed. The move was widely criticized by the international community as an attempt to cling to power. Although the state of emergency was lifted after 45 days, the political tensions have not subsided, and the opposition leaders remained in jail.

The new government has released the political prisoners and taken steps to restore democratic institutions. However, the judiciary is still under the influence of Yameen's administration, and there are concerns about the lack of an independent judiciary. The government has also faced criticism for intimidating journalists and curtailing freedom of expression.

The Tourism Industry

The Maldives is heavily dependent on the tourism industry, which accounts for over 28% of the GDP and provides employment to over 15% of the workforce. The country has over 150 resorts, and the majority are operated by international hotel chains.

The pandemic has severely impacted the tourism sector, with visitor numbers dropping drastically, and many resorts closing down. The government has launched several initiatives to revive the industry, including discounts on resort fees, tax breaks, and promotional campaigns. However, the situation remains uncertain, and visitors are advised to check the latest travel advisories before planning a trip to Maldives.

Conclusion

The Maldives's political crisis and economic challenges have impacted the country's image as a tourist destination. While the new government has taken steps to address the issues, there are concerns about the lack of progress in restoring democratic institutions and reviving the tourism industry. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest developments before planning a trip to the Maldives.