SECTOR 3 3.6 The editorial independence of the state/public broadcaster from political influence is guaranteed by law and practised. Panel members were unanimous in their assessment that political influence is being exerted on the state/public broadcasters. Ironically, this interference is regarded by the general public as normal practice. Discussions on this indicator highlighted the confusion of citizens around the concept of public service generally and public service media in particular. Public broadcasters such as the RNM and TVM are mistakenly viewed as working for the state and not as media outlets employed by and at the service of taxpayers. This confusion often leads to misunderstandings and different interpretations of the roles and responsibilities of public broadcasters. However, although this confusion still exists, the public does complain about the government’s monopoly of air time, especially during election campaigns. In the ongoing political crisis RNM and TVM cannot freely broadcast the views of the opposition. Unfortunately, there is no law to protect the public broadcaster from editorial interference, and its independence is generally undermined. Article 36 of Ordinance 92-039 guarantees the state authorities almost unlimited access: “The government may at any time publish and broadcast through the public broadcaster, all statements or announcements it deems necessary”. 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: 1.0 1.0 (2006 = n/a; 2008 = n/a) AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MADAGASCAR 2010 105