SECTOR 2 The media landscape, including new media, is characterised by diversity, independence and sustainability. 2.1 A wide range of sources of information (print, broadcasting, internet, mobile phones) is accessible and affordable to citizens. A large variety of print media is available in Madagascar. Many new publications have seen the light of day between 2015-2016, for example La Depeche, Mon journal, or still Le Citoyen. The cost of these publications remains a problem for the population at large, seeing that a newspaper costs on average as much as a baguette (approx. 500 Ariary = USD 0,20). Distribution of information is another factor of inequality. All information sources are available in Antananarivo, but regional cities receive a limited offer. On the other hand, small towns and villages in the countryside have little to no access to information provided by the media. It takes at least one day in order to receive print media in the regions. The illiteracy rate (46%) is also an essential factor limiting access to information in Madagascar. Radio stations consequently perform an essential service in relaying information to the general public. Unfortunately, their quality remains limited because broadcasts often lack content and diversity. 6 The GEPIM is currently working on an application for mobile phones, which would allow for the reception of news briefs, but it will not be for free. In Madagascar, the fact that access to information is not for free means that information is far from being available to all citizens. As for Internet, connections are subject to frequent cuts and are quite expensive. 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: 3.7 (2012 = 3.8, 2010 = 2.1, 2008 = 2.3, 2006 = 2.8) 6 Groupement des éditeurs de presse indépendants de Madagascar 76 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MADAGASCAR 2016