SECTOR 3 Broadcasting regulation is transparent and independent; the state broadcaster is transformed into a truly public broadcaster. 3.1 Broadcasting legislation has been passed and is implemented that provides for a conducive environment for public, commercial and community broadcasting. Law nr. 97-010 of 20 August 1997 was passed in Benin to liberalize the media landscape. However, it does not provide for a particularly conducive environment for public, commercial and community broadcasting outside of the competitive context which could be a means of improving the competitiveness of the state broadcaster. The government now uses this same law which led to the liberalization of the airwaves to prevent the establishment of new broadcasting networks. It refuses to provide preliminary technical authorization while the state broadcaster is expanding its coverage throughout the country. Panel members view this as unfair competition in favour of the state broadcaster ORTB (Radio and television broadcasting network of Benin). 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: 96 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BENIN 2009 3.6 (2007=4.7)