(ISPU). Training is also offered by institutions such as NSJ, MISA, SARDC, but most of these
courses are designed by the donors and most of the times their content does not arise out of the
needs of the media.
SCORES:
Individual scores:
Average score:

3, 3, 2, 2, 3, 2, 3, 2, 1
2.3

4.10. Journalists and other media practitioners are organised in trade unions
and/or professional associations.
ANALYSIS:
There is a journalists’ union. However, it has been moribund for over five years. Recently, the
organisation held elections and there is now a new management team. It is still too early to see
whether the team will be independent and creative. The criticism mostly levelled against the
previous management was that it was too cosy with the ruling party.
Not every journalist can be a member of the union. This is because of a clause that says that
owners can not be members. It is a paradox that most owners are journalists. Consequently,
those whose voices are likely to be more vocal and critical are marginalised from decisionmaking in the union.
SCORES:
Individual scores:
Average score:

3, 2, 1, 1, 2, 1, 2, 3, 4
2.1

Overall score for sector 4:

So This Is Democracy? 2005

2.1

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Media Institute of Southern Africa

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