Ministry warns against disclosing children's identities in sexual abuse cases

The Ministry of Social and Family Development has urged the public and media organisations not to disclose personal information that could identify children involved in criminal cases, including victims of sexual abuse, warning that such disclosures violate children's rights.

The ministry issued the statement on Saturday following the circulation of information on social media concerning a child involved in the sexual harassment case against former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.

Shahid, a former chairperson of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) who is seeking the party's presidential nomination for the next election, is currently being held in custody for 30 days in connection with allegations of sexually harassing a child while occupying a position of trust.

Before his arrest, Shahid denied the allegations and claimed they were politically motivated attempts to damage his reputation. The allegations have not been proven in court.

In its statement, the ministry expressed concern that personal information about children was being circulated through media platforms in ways that could compromise their dignity and contravene the Child Rights Protection Act.

The ministry urged individuals and organisations to refrain from publishing or sharing such information on social media or through other channels.

It said the Constitution recognises children as individuals entitled to special protection and assistance from their families, communities and the state.

The Child Rights Protection Act also prohibits the disclosure of personal information that could undermine a child's dignity, the ministry said.

According to the ministry, the prohibition applies to children accused of offences, victims of crimes and children requiring care or protection for other reasons.

The restrictions cover information published through media organisations, social media platforms and other means of communication.

The ministry said identifying information includes children's names, addresses, educational institutions, photographs and other details that could directly or indirectly reveal their identities.

It stressed that these legal protections are intended to safeguard children's interests and prevent further harm.

The ministry also warned against publishing children's personal information to influence public opinion about cases involving them.

"Publishing personal information that could undermine a child's dignity on media platforms, whether to influence public opinion or for any other purpose, constitutes a violation of the child's rights," the ministry said.

It further emphasised that protecting children's rights is a legal responsibility shared by society.

"Protecting children's rights is a legal responsibility of the entire community. We therefore urge everyone not to disclose such information under any circumstances," the ministry said.