SECTOR 4 However, there is a small “minority” that strives to respect basic principles of good journalism and professional ethics, even though they may falter from time to time. The country’s leading newspapers - both public and private - demonstrate their dedication to good journalism by, for example, requiring their journalists to fact-check information before publishing. According to the panellists, leading English language newspapers fare much better in separating news and opinion pages. 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: 2.3 (2008=1.7; 2011=2.2) 4.2 The media follow voluntary codes of professional standards, which are enforced by independent/ nonstatutory bodies that deal with complaints from the public. While there is a general lack of voluntary action by independent media organisations to check unethical behaviour, there are a few exceptions that make it clear that the situation could improve significantly with greater commitment. The association of sports journalists has managed to develop and enforce a voluntary code of conduct and ethics for its members. The association frequently receives complaints from the public and often sanctions members, including exclusion, for the violation of professional standards and ethics. But the organisation’s impact on the entire industry is limited. The Cameroon Union of Journalists and the Cameroon Association of English Speaking Journalists have developed separate codes of ethics and conduct but they have never been fully implemented and followed by their members. The leadership of the two associations have failed to promote adherence to the principles stated in the documents and lack the authority to enforce them. Discussions are well advanced for the creation of a National Order of Journalists, instituted through an Act of Parliament. Supporters believe the Order stands the AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER CAMEROON 2014 123