SECTOR 1 Generally, organisations in Botswana do not work together: media organisations, such as the Botswana chapter of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA), tackle media issues; issues of human rights are taken up by Ditsbwanelo, the Botswana human rights organisation; while unions, such as the umbrella body, the Botswana Federation of Trade Unions (BFTU), deal with workers’ issues. In early 2009, the Coalition for Freedom of Expression (COFEX) was formed, under a MISA forum, to draw the attention of civil society to the importance of protecting freedom of expression, especially with the threats to civil liberties posed by the Media Practitioners Act. As COFEX is still in its infancy, funding is being sought for it to play an active role. During the 2009 World Press Freedom Day commemorations organised by MISA, civil society organisations gave solidarity statements. 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: 2.2 (2005 = 2.4; 2007 = 2.8) 1.12 Media legislation evolves from meaningful consultations among state institutions, citizens and interest groups. Analysis: An apparent and rather hollow consultative process was launched in early discussions on the Media Practitioners Bill. However, this process was not meaningful and most of the issues raised by stakeholders were ignored by government. In addition, no draft bill was made available for scrutiny to any stakeholders, not even to the Media Advisory Council, which comprises representatives from the private and public sectors.11 11 http://www.botswanamedia.bw/mac.htm AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BOTSWANA 2009 23