A review of environmental law in Maldives with respect to conservation, biodiversity, fisheries and tourism

Maldives is a small island developing State in the Indian Ocean comprised of multiple low-lying, sandy islands and coral reefs. It has a long history of human occupation and dependence on the environment, particularly the ocean, for food, resources and trade. Maldives continues to rely upon nature through tourism and fisheries. Conservation and sustainable use of the environment and its resources is therefore of paramount importance to Maldives. In response to growing environmental pressures, including climate change, the State has engaged at global and regional levels, ratifying treaties and participating in key international institutions. It has also developed national law and policy, as well as relevant plans and strategies focused on sustainability. Despite this activity, relatively little legal research has focused on this jurisdiction. This article aims to contribute to the literature on Maldives by exploring environmental, fisheries and tourism laws and policies, analysing current legislative developments and making tentative recommendations in areas where governance could be enhanced.