SECTOR 4 4.4 Journalists and other media practitioners are organised in trade unions and/or professional associations, which effectively represent their interests Benin has two main media trade union associations, one for employees and the other for employers. These two associations are the Union of Media Professionals of Benin and the National Council of Press and Broadcasting Employers. These unions have successfully ensured that media outlets with more than 11 employees elect at least one worker as a representative. The missions of these associations include defending the freedom of the press, protecting the rights of journalists and promoting solidarity among members. The unions continue to seek new members, however some of the actions of most of these unions and organisations are not seen. They do not have the means to accomplish their different missions and have been unable to attract new members. On the other hand, leaders are accused of using unions and associations for their own interests, which results in the loss of interest from potential new members. 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: 41 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BENIN 2018 ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 3.3 (2007 = 4.5; 2009 = 2.2; 2011 = 3.9; 2014 = 1.9)