SECTOR 1 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: 3.4 (2012 = 1.4; 2010 = 2.9; 2008 = 2.0; 2006 = 3.6) 1.11 Media legislation evolves from meaningful consultations among state institutions, citizens and interest groups. Public consultation, in general, is not a usual practice in Lesotho. “In this country, laws are just passed without consultation”. MISA makes a conscious effort to engage government on media issues, but this collaboration is never initiated from government’s side. Where consultation does take place, for example with the Media Policy, inputs are not taken on board and/or reflected in the policy document. “They invite you, but don’t take on the considerations that you have made. They legitimise the process by calling you there, but don’t use your submission. It is window dressing.” “We made a direct presentation to Lesotho Communications Authority on the Media Policy and Communications Policy, but don’t see our views contained.” Panellists noted that despite these frustrations, the process with regards to public participation is still evolving, and parliamentary sub-committees are beginning to understand their roles. “The executive frustrates the process because it doesn’t provide committees with resources to undertake their work, including consultation. The fact that we don’t have a definition on public participation is a problem in itself.” 24 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER LESOTHO 2015