SECTOR 1 the pressure from the respective line ministry drive some officials to silence. Many are reluctant to part with information even if technically it is already in the public domain. No law requires them to inform the public. Information and issues relating to public affairs are usually discussed and debated during parliamentary sessions at the National Assembly, commonly referred to as “question and answer sessions”. Broadcast live on national TV and radio, these debates are supposed to inform citizens or bring them up-to-date on various issues. However, in Madagascar this is unfortunately not the case as parliamentary debates are virtually nonexistent. Parliamentarians generally approve proposals put before them and vote with virtually no debate. - Parliament has been suspended since March 2009. 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: 2.3 (2006 = 1.6; 2008 = 1.5) 1.9 Websites and blogs are not required to register with or obtain permission from state authorities. No permission is required from state authorities to start or run a website or a blog. There are no laws that would either restrict or protect such activities. 82 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MADAGASCAR 2010