remaining 70% comes from advertising revenues and various services. ORTM’s programmes are diverse and particular emphasis is placed on local and regional content. The way in which journalists process information is often questionable as the line between fact and opinion is quite thin. Biased and self-serving comments take over facts. This situation is fuelled by the great level of disparity among journalists. However, experienced journalists are considered to do their job adequately. There is no self-regulatory body. The OJM,1 which is enshrined by law, has been given the mandate to guarantee the rules of ethics and professional conduct. The minimum starting monthly wage is 200,000 ariary (US$54) however some media houses frequently pay their journalists less than this, often without any employment contract. Media houses often do not hire qualified journalists which encourages the practice of felaka.2 The living conditions of journalists remain poor, which fosters corruption. However, some bodies strive to offer employees a decent salary and social benefits, such as health coverage, pension and insurance. A new journalists’ trade union is currently being established. In addition, many professional associations are active, both in the main city and the provinces, that actively represent the interests of their members. Many journalists and editors practice self-censorship due to fear of reprisals, especially when it comes to sensitive topics. Sometimes, media owners clearly indicate what information has to be avoided. The fear of losing advertisers also limits the room for manoeuvre within the media. This self-censorship practise may lead to withholding information useful to society and public interest. Many public and private universities offer training courses which lead to a bachelor’s or master’s degree. However, some institutions offering journalism teach only the basics and a general introduction to communication. Many training initiatives are carried out to upgrade journalists’ skills but in practice they do not significantly improve the quality of journalists’ work. 9 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MADAGASCAR 2019