SECTOR 4 Developments since 2008 and the Way Forward Positive developments in the media environment in the past two years and reasons for these changes: 1. The Media House is operational. Main reason: personal commitment from the President of the Republic that demonstrates a political will. 2. Increase in media coverage rate. 2.1 Establishment of new private radio stations: 300 out of the 498 authorisations issued for the creation of radio stations are functional. Main reason: requests but more importantly the availability of channels 2.2 Launching of new regional media houses: TV – FM. Main reason: Implementation of the ORTM guiding plan according to the strong demand for access to information. 2.3 Creation of new newspapers (daily, weekly, regional). Main reason: conducive environment. 2.4 ORTM on the international bouquet. Main reason: Diaspora request considered in the ORTM guiding plan. 2.5 Private Malian radio stations are on the internet. Main reason: development of information technology and communication. 2.6 Creation of online newspapers. Main reason: development of information technology and communication. 3. Collective convention signature. Main reason: Journalists worrying about their status and working conditions, union willing to help. 4. The ongoing review of legislative documents and regulations. Main reason: need to strengthen democracy. 5. Improvement of ORTM’s programme content. Main reasons: listeners’ reaction, programmes’ commentators, the administrative board. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MALI 2010 127