SECTOR 4 What are the main obstacles for further positive change? The main obstacles include: • • • the economic, institutional and legal environment of the media; the absence of quality in recruitment processes and management of media houses; failure to integrate gender-related issues in the appointment mechanisms of HAAC members. What kinds of activities are needed over the next two years? Activities for the next two years include: • • • • • • • • • • financing and setting up of a few media houses of reference that may serve as models; the passing of a law on financing state information services; the passing of an information and communications act; the establishment of a quota system in order to integrate gender in the appointment of HAAC advisors; the promotion of a state media consumers association; the pooling of production means; the establishment of strategic alliances with other civil society players on issues relating to freedom of expression and of the media; the creation of a media support fund; the revision of the ORTB articles of agreement; the revision of the appointment mode of managers of state media services. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BENIN 2009 119