SECTOR 1 One example of conformity is the United Nations International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights which refers to the concept of freedom of expression. This is supported by the Zambian Constitution. But other regional and international treaties have yet to be domesticated. In other jurisdictions, such agreements are automatically applied, but in Zambia, they must first be domesticated. Even if there is existing legislation, it has to be revised to conform with the new provisions. With the Gender Equity and Equality Act (2015), the drafters took many international aspects and incorporated them. But in terms of practice and implementation, the country is lacking. For instance, women’s representation in parliament is only 18%. At council level, it is just 8%. 50% is considered to be the ideal. In addition, a gender commission has not yet been established. Such a commission would have the power to go to any sector and enforce gender mainstreaming. The SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections is clear on how media coverage should occur, but there is no reference to this in the Zambian Electoral Process Act (2016). 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: Score of previous years: ✓✓✓✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓✓ 2 .1 2017 = 2.2 1.5 Print publications are not required to obtain permission to publish from state authorities The Zambian Printed Publications Act (Section 5) requires one to register in order to publish. However, no permission as such is required from state authorities to publish, merely notification of the intention to publish. Copies of the publication must also be deposited with the national archives. As long as the publication is not political, then there will be no restrictions. However, if one is critical of the government, they will look at one’s taxes, whether the person is registered as a journalist, if they are regulated, etc. So, the law, in practice, impedes print media. “Most people don’t even know this law exists. Essentially you are fine as long as you are not critical of the government.” AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ZAMBIA 2021 13