SECTOR 3 Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country minimally meets aspects of the indicator. 3 Country meets many aspects of indicator but progress may be too recent to judge. 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator. 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator and has been doing so over time. Average score: 2.4 (2007=3.7) 3.10 The state/public broadcaster offers balanced and fair information in news and current affairs, reflecting the full spectrum of diverse views and opinions. This is a reality in national radio broadcasting. But in television broadcasting, programmes and news casts mirror to a large extent the views of the government and those of political actors supporting the ruling party. Programmes can no longer be broadcast without the prior approval of the content or the guests. The host of the morning show “Bonjour Citoyen” has however displayed on several occasions a minimum of professional independence without going against the editorial line that the government imposes on the state television. The absence of community spirit and the fact that editorial meetings are not held on a regular basis do not permit the state television to offer balanced and fair information reflecting the full spectrum of diverse views. Many ORTB journalists working at the television news desk often discover the contents of the news hour at the same time as the viewers. Conclusion: yes and no depending whether it is Radio-Cotonou or other editorial teams: particularly the state television or radio Parakou. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BENIN 2009 103