pendently from the government system because this system impacts, directly or indirectly, on the future of every citizen. SCORES: Individual scores: 2, 1, 1, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2 Average score: 1.4 4.7 Owners of private media do not interfere with editorial independence. ANALYSIS: Ownership structures determine the nature and degree of interference with editorial independence in the different media. In general it is not possible to promote views contrary to those of their owners. At the Times of Swaziland the owners have an overall say on what goes into the paper. Likewise in the Observer, the owners constantly check to ensure editors adhere to company policy. In the Nation magazine, the editor is also a shareholder and this places him in a unique position to dictate editorial policy, content and coverage preferences. Owners claim that it is impossible for them not to interfere because “it is not the editor who has to pay for libel”. Editors, on the other hand, complain that owners “have no faith” in them. SCORES: Individual scores: 2, 1, 2, 1, 2, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2 Average score: 1.6 4.8 Salary levels and general working conditions for journalists and other media practitioners are adequate to discourage corruption. ANALYSIS: Salaries are low (“pathetic”) and working conditions generally poor resulting in more and more journalists leaving the profession for better paid jobs elsewhere. Most journalists do not see a future in journalism. Average monthly salaries are E1 000 for junior reporters and E2 500 for senior reporters. The poverty of journalists exposes them to offers of various forms of gratification by sources in return for favourable coverage and promotion of private agendas, creating a “generally corrupt relationship”. There have been reports that some journalists glorify certain sources in return for financial kick-backs (“scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours”). However, some accusations of corruption cannot be substantiated. There is need for all media to improve the salary scales and working conditions in order for the journalism profession to retain its best. SCORES: Individual scores: 1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 2, 2, 1, 1, 2 Average score: 1.4 4.9 Training facilities offer formal qualification programmes for journalists as well as opportunities to upgrade their skills. ANALYSIS: Journalism training is available at the University of Swaziland which offers a three-year diSo This Is Democracy? 2005 -261- Media Institute of Southern Africa