SECTOR 1 However, with regards to implementation, the authorities do not always abide by their international commitments and the provisions of the constitution. Panellists stated that some parts of national laws – such as criminal libel – are in total violation of international standards. Even though Benin has joined platforms that defend freedom of information, the country is yet to pass a freedom of information law. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 2.5 (2007 = n/a; 2009 = 3.2; 2011 = 2.7; 2014 = 2.6) 1.5 Print publications are not required to obtain permission to publish from state authorities In principle, prior permission is not required to publish a newspaper or a news magazine in Benin. However, it is mandatory for any media promoter to first create an LLC and it is up to the HAAC to issue an acknowledgement of declaration note. Other conditions, such as registration fees, have been introduced into the law over the last decade. ‘We are tacitly transitioning to a licensing scheme.’ Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 13 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BENIN 2018 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓ 3.3 (2007 = n/a; 2009 = 4.6; 2011 = 3.2; 2014 = 4.4)