SECTOR 1 Some editors fear their publications may be closed down in future if they are overly critical of the government. 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: 1.4 (2005 = n/a; 2007 = n/a; 2009 = 1.0) 1.6 Entry into and practice of the journalistic profession is legally unrestricted. There is currently no restriction in place. The restrictions will come into effect when the MPA becomes operational at a date yet to be determined, there will be restrictions. Once operational, this law will enforce the registration of journalists and the statutory Botswana Press Council will determine who can or cannot work as a journalist. “Even after studying for three or four years to be a journalist, you will need the state’s permission to work in this field!” “Even after studying for three or four years to be a journalist, you will need the state’s permission to work in this field!” In addition, a number of experienced journalists in Botswana do not have journalism qualifications, but may have another degree, so the criteria to be used by the State to determine who can practise the profession is unclear. “The law is very vague. The MPA will restrict who can be a journalist as this is at the discretion of the Press Council.” This is in spite of the fact that there are some internationally recognised journalists who do not have journalism qualifications but are very good writers. 16 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BOTSWANA 2011