SECTOR 4 • The journalistic profession is becoming increasingly precarious, and the purchasing power of journalists is declining. This also affects their motivation and the quality of their work. 3. What are the main obstacles for further positive change? • • Shortcomings with regard to training are the core obstacle for improvements in the quality of media services. Other inhibiting factors are the issue of journalistic ethics, the Achilles heel of the Malagasy media, and the mutual incomprehension between media owners and journalists. The global and national crisis as well as the lack of job security for journalists are impacting negatively on the quality of journalism. In addition, journalists are still not being paid as decently as they should be. 4 . What kind of activities are needed over the next two years? • • • • 126 The training of journalists is essential. In particular there is a need for training on thematic issues (environment, childhood, gender, etc.) conducted by specialised networks, organisations and associations that are able to offer training sessions or refresher courses. The training of media owners is also important. Each media outlet should be run as a company with its own particularities, constraints and advantages and be clearly distinguishable from any other company. Work on the Communications Code should be accelerated. A code of professional standards in journalism should also be established by all practitioners of the trade in a joint and inclusive manner. Finally, journalists should make a determined effort to organise themselves with a view to achieving the sustainable objective of promoting the emergence of a media of quality and professionalism. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MADAGASCAR 2010