WAY FORWARD The way forward 1. What were the developments in the media environment the last 3-4 years since the last AMB panel discussion? Positive • • • • • • • Increased civil society action taking place An increase in the number of radio stations and newspapers Improvement in the number of women in leadership in media houses, although this can be improved further Citizens are vocal despite the fear factor having increased. Even though people are scared to reveal their names, they are still expressing themselves robustly. Greater access to social media The creation of the Broadcasting Dispute Resolution Panel, through the Lesotho Communications Authority and its supporting Act Improved parliamentary reporting Negative • (The perception of) the practise of the right to freedom of expression has declined • Fragmentation/polarisation of media along on political lines • Increased intimidation of journalists, particularly by defence forces • The decline in the professional standards of the media • Lack of safety measures for media practitioners, especially in light of the increased incidences of intimidation • Lack of focus by the media on the development agenda • Corruption within the media fraternity • Limited training opportunities for media practitioners to upgrade their skills • Increased exploitation of media staff by the owners of media houses • Limited transformation of the state broadcaster, despite the legislation that exists • Lack of implementation with respect to the ICT policy AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER Lesotho 2015 63