SECTOR 1 1.6 Entry into and practice of the journalistic profession is not restricted by law. he panelists oicially state that entry into and practice of the journalistic profession is not restricted by law. In real terms there are legislations that control the access to media cards, though some journalists still practice without the cards. he panelists are of the opinion that the provisions made within the context of HAAC are a good attempt at putting things right in the profession. hat can be clearly seen in article 10 of the law establishing HAAC which says “the Minister of Communications is to issue the media cards after receiving the complete documentation from the applicant that will have been passed by the Broadcasting and Communications Authority”. hough all these check-ups have proven useful, the panelists still have their reservations since minors have been found to be practicing as well, therefore showing that there must still be loopholes. 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: 4.9 (2007= 4.8 ; 2009=4.9) 1.7 Conidential sources of information protected by law and/or the courts. are It is evident in Benin that conidential sources of information by journalists are not protected even though the provision for it is made within the code of conduct for journalists in article 7, where it talks of professional secrets. he law courts do not recognize this notion and judges are still condemning the practice since they see it as a refusal to obey their orders in giving proof of allegations. 80 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BENIN 2011