SECTOR 4

4.4. Equal opportunities regardless of race, social
group, gender/sex, religion, disabilities and age are
promoted in media houses.
While some media houses have gender and disability policies, questions remain as
to whether or not these have translated into equal opportunities.
Most media in Swaziland could claim they are doing something towards providing
equal opportunities in regard to gender. The SBIS employs more women than
men, although only two of the broadcaster’s top managers are women. The
Swazi Observer had a female CEO until recently, and a woman still serves as
the company’s marketing manager, while the Times has the country’s only female
editor.
There was criticism that the media in general are not pro-active enough when it
comes to people with disabilities. Only the SBIS premises have been adapted to
allow wheelchair access, and employs disabled journalists.

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:

3.0 (2009: 4.2; 2007 and 2005: n/a)

4.5
Journalists and editors do not practise self–
censorship.
Many examples of self-censorship are described under indicators above: editors
are called to the King’s court to explain their coverage; politicians and political
appointees have a hotline to editors; media are afraid of losing government
advertising. “It is a fact of life.”
“Self-censorship has killed our position in terms of standing up against things
no matter what,” said a panellist. “Our owner understands we have to have a

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AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER SWAZILAND 2011

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