African Media Barometer - MALI Ségou Workshop, 2 - 4 June 2006 Sector 1 Freedom of expression, including media freedom, is effectively protected and promoted. 1.1 The freedom of expression, including media freedom, is guaranteed by the constitution and protected by other laws. Analysis In Mali, freedom of the press is one of the fundamental principles of a growing democratic system based on the freedom of opinion and freedom of thought and expression. The Malian constitution formally guarantees the freedom of expression, including media freedom. In its article 4 the constitution says “All persons are entitled to the freedom of thought, conscience, religion, cult, opinion, expression and creation in respect of the law.” “Freedom of the press is recognized and guaranteed. It is exercised in conditions set the law. Equal access for all to the state media is assured by an independent organ whose status is set by an organic law” (article 7) in accordance with the declaration of Human and Citizens Rights of 26 August 1789 (French declaration) and in the African Charter of Human and People’s Rights. Also in article 11 of the Declaration of Human and Citizen’s Rights the text reads “The free communication of thought and opinion is one of the most precious rights of Man: all citizens may speak, write, print freely, instead of replying to the abuse of this freedom in cases determined by law.” The African Charter of Human and People’s Rights says the following: “Any person is entitled to information. Any person has the right to express and circulate his/her opinion within a legal and regulated framework.” (article 9) In Mali, law no. 00-46/AN-RM of 7 July 2000 regulates the freedom of the press and press offences. Individual marks: 4-4-3-4-3-5-4-4-5-4 Average: 4.0 26