SECTOR 1 1.9 Websites and blogs are not required to register with, or obtain permission from, state authorities. Analysis: Under the Media Practitioners Act, all publications in Botswana are required to register with the statutory Media Council. Under the act, publications are defined very broadly as “all print, broadcast and electronic information that is published”. Thus, in theory, websites and blogs originating within Botswana will be required to register with, and obtain permission from, state authorities.10 Mention was also made of the Botswana Telecommunications Authority (BTA) setting a deadline of December 21, 2009 for the registration of all prepaid mobile phone SIM-cards. SIM-cards that are not registered by this date will be cut off. This registration has raised fears among journalists, and ordinary members of civil society, of increased surveillance by intelligence agents. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country minimally meets aspects of the indicator. 3 Country meets many aspects of indicator but progress may be too recent to judge. 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator. 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator and has been doing so over time. Average score: 1.0 (2005 = n/a; 2007 = n/a) 1.10 The state does not seek to block or filter internet content unless laws provide for restrictions that serve a legitimate interest and necessary in a democratic society. Analysis: As electronic publications, such as websites and blogs, will have to be registered with the Media Council, as per clauses in the Media Practitioners Act, there is 10 Media Practitioners Act, 2008 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BOTSWANA 2009 21