SECTOR 2 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: 3.8 (2010: 2.2; 2007: n/a) 2.8 All media fairly reflect the voices of society in its ethnic, linguistic, religious, political and social diversity. In terms of ethnic, linguistic and even religious representation, “radio does a very good job”. The New Vision group has a number of titles published in indigenous languages, although most of the main newspapers are in English. The same cannot be said for the media’s representation of “the destitute and those with different behaviour and different sexual orientation”. “There is homophobia in the media. If you belong to these groups, you are not going to get covered. Ten years ago you would see these groups in the papers, but not now.” The fact that homosexuality is illegal deters some media houses from fairly reflecting the views of and issues affecting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. “Our position at New Vision is that homosexuality is prohibited by the Penal Code and therefore you do not seek to provide a platform that will result in legal action. Also, our position is that we shall not provide a platform for a debate on homosexuality.” “When you want to oppress someone, you will always use legal provisions”, another panellist responded. “We are all human. The media should look at everyone as human. These are human beings who should be treated with respect, and the media should be balanced.” “You can’t help but be biased in a biased situation”, came the reply. 38 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER UGANDA 2012