Wave of Change - Maldives

March 2005
The Maldives have always faced two main problems -- the threat of global warming and government by dictatorship. Bizarrely, the Tsunami appears to have had a positive impact on both.

"The tide is now three to four times higher than it was 100 years ago," states scientist Dr Ali. The government attempted to deal with this threat by building a artificial island high above sea level. When the Tsunami struck, it used this opportunity to permanently re-house residents on the nine lowest lying islands. Unexpectedly, the President also released political prisoners and promised multi-party democracy. Critics claim this is just a cynical ploy to attract more aid. But released prisoners believe these changes will be permanent. "I don't see that things can be reversed. We've past the point of no return."

Produced by ABC Australia
Distributed by Journeyman Pictures