SECTOR 1 1.9 The state does not seek to block or filter internet content unless in accordance with laws that provide for restrictions that serve a legitimate interest and are necessary for a democratic society, and which are applied by independent courts ‘The government in Lesotho does not have the know-how to filter internet content.’ Panellists noted that there is little digital literacy and capacity to monitor, filter and block online messages or platforms. One panellist shared that there was a consultant from Israel who came in 2015 to help the government block the internet, but nothing came out of this. Mention was made of social media, most notably Facebook, which is blocked in all government offices – ostensibly as a measure to ensure productivity and to save on data costs. 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: 18 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER LESOTHO 2018 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ 3.6 (2015: 4.3, 2012: 4.8, 2010: 3.2, 2008: n/a, 2006: n/a)