Swaziland
Developments since 2005 and the Way Forward
Positive developments in the media environment in the last two
years:
•

The adoption of the Constitution, which guarantees both
freedom of expression and media freedom.

•

Increased public consciousness of the right to freedom of
expression and increased effort by the media to enable
people to exercise their right to freedom of expression.

•

The drafting of six new media bills, designed to introduce
freedom of information legislation, legislation establishing
a public broadcasting corporation and an independent broadcasting regulator, amend the Books and Newspaper Act
and replace the outdated Cinematography Act.

•

Increased editorial freedom and independence at the state
broadcasters, spearheaded by journalists willing to challenge
the status quo.

•

The resurrection of the media union with the launch of the
Media Workers’ Union of Swaziland (MWUS).

•

Increased salaries for media practitioners.

Negative developments in the media environment in the last two
years:
•

The attempt by government to introduce statutory regulation
with the Media Commission Draft Bill 2007.

• Little improvement in media diversity. There have been just
two entrants to the media industry in the last two years: one
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African Media Barometer - Swaziland 2007

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