Industrial Relations Changes in the Maldives : Critical Events and Actors

This paper analyses recent industrial relations (IR) and political changes in the Maldives. Critical incidents were compiled from interview and document data and analysed using a quasi‐grounded theory approach. The analysis shows that, precipitated by the political events of September 2003, profound democratic and IR changes took place, including the emergence of new IR actors and institutions. However, the outcomes of these changes proved short‐lived as old undemocratic practices were reasserted. The paper highlights the reasons why democratic and IR changes occurred as they did in the Maldives and why they reversed