SECTOR 2

unfair suspension from work. A few women in prominent positions were also
highlighted as sources of news. L’Hebdo - a weekly printed by Le Defi Media
Group - dedicates four pages of various types of stories featuring women. L’Express
also has a regular feature on women involved in science, business, commerce and
industry.
It was also highlighted that the current media portrayal of women is reflective
of society. The political spectrum itself is composed of a majority of men and the
business world of Mauritius is dominated by men, which would explain why their
voices are so prominent. Added to that is the fact that women in the public sector
are reluctant, and in some cases unable, to provide sound bites when they are
approached by the media.

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: 			

3.6 (2008 =n/a)

2.8
All media fairly reflect the voices of society in
its ethnic, linguistic, religious, political and social
diversity.
Mainstream media make a significant attempt to cover ethnic, linguistic and
religious diversity, but there is a massive imbalance in the coverage of social and
political diversity. One panellist felt that issues of social diversity are disregarded
even when organisations make a concerted effort to invite the media to press
conferences highlighting newsworthy issues, and provide press briefs or appealing
sound bites. Political issues are covered in a biased manner depending on the
media organisation and their political agenda. Minority parties are sidelined.

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MAURITIUS 2010

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