SECTOR 4 development and is noted for running training and sponsoring professional networking for its members abroad. Despite this, the majority of organisations are run less transparently and are suspected of serving the interests of their founders. Critics say that the national professional associations and unions have not been as forceful in denouncing attacks on journalists as international organisations. Professional development generally overshadows broader goals such as advocacy for a freer press and access to information. Even though unions claim to cater to the employment conditions of journalists, they lack the capacity to affect change. According to one panellist, some of the greatest needs of journalists, beyond good pay, is safety and security – but these issues are not properly articulated. Both the attitude of the government and employers prevent some journalists from joining a professional association or union. Most of the outspoken groups are viewed as troublemakers and unfriendly to the government and prospective employers. To keep their jobs, most journalists choose to stay away from union and association activities. 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: ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓✓ ✓ ✓✓ 2.8 (2008 = 3.2; 2011 = 4.8; 2014 = 2.8) 4.5 Journalists and media houses have integrity and are not corrupt Corruption is rife in the media. Journalists willingly and openly accept bribes and other favours from event organisers in exchange for positive coverage. Over the years, a number of code names have been used to refer to bribes or tips from event organisers. The most popular are gombo (okra) and final communique. Bribery in the sector likely began as per diems that were given to journalists of public media covering state events. The practice spread to the private sector and became standard across the industry, resulting in a crop of ‘cocktail journalists’ emerging over the years. Similar to ‘brown envelopes’ in other parts of the world, journalists make from 50,000 CFA (about 90 USD) a month to millions of francs a month through this means. Event organisers have learned to budget for journalists. At one time, the Ministry of the Economy had approximately 500 million CFA (about 880,000 USD) for ‘servicing the press’ in its annual budget. 45 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER CAMEROON 2018