AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER - MADAGASCAR Sector 1 - Freedom of expression, including media freedom, are effectively protected and promoted. 1.1 Freedom of expression, including freedom of the media, is guaranteed in the constitution and protected by other pieces of legislation. ANALYSIS: Madagascar is a signatory to the International Charter on Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Its constitution guarantees the freedom of opinion and expression, freedom of communication and freedom of the press. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which has also been ratified by the Big Island, stipulates in detail that this freedom of expression includes the freedom of research, as well as the receiving and spreading of information and ideas. Possible restrictions to these freedoms, expressly determined by law, relate to the respect of rights or the reputation of others, and maintaining public security and order, as well as public health and moral standards. Law no. 90-031 of 21 December 1990 on communication guarantees freedom of expression and of the press as stipulated in the constitution. This law mandates the press to give voice to all opinions and report on all events or facts likely to interest the public and to contribute to the education of the public. Freedom and independence of thought and expression is unhindered as long as the rights and dignity of others are respected. In terms of the constitution, freedom of expression, including freedom of the media, are guaranteed in Madagascar. However, the repressive character of the law on communication, including prison sentences for media offences, is not conducive to press freedom. SCORES: Individual scores: 3, 2, 5, 3, 2, 3, 2, 4 Average score: 3.0 1.2 The right to freedom of expression is practised and citizens, including journalists, are asserting their rights without fear. ANALYSIS: 24