SECTOR 1 1.9 The state does not seek to block or filter internet content unless in accordance with laws that provide for restrictions that serve a legitimate interest and are necessary in a democratic society and which are applied by independent courts The State does not seek to block internet content. All sites, even those considered as illegal in other countries, and social media are accessible to citizens. However, there are times when websites cannot be accessed. For example, during the second round of the 2018 presidential election, the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (CENI)17 website could not be accessed, resulting in citizens being unable to monitor election results in real time. CENI gave no clear explanation for this. Panellists felt that generally the state, through its agents or the cybercrime unit attached to the MCC, seeks to increase surveillance, particularly on social media: the authorities carry out monitoring. A panellist pointed out that senior officials show their willingness to control or block social media when the debates flame up. Today social media, especially Facebook, have been democratised by operators.18 This social network has become an ideal medium for citizens and activists to express themselves, and the administration is keeping a close watch on posted comments. 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: Score of previous years: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓✓ 4 .3 2006: n/a; 2008: n/a; 2010: 4.6; 2012: 4.5; 2016: 2.6 1.10 Civil society in general and the media lobby groups actively advance the cause of media freedom The panel pointed out that civil society organisations (CSOs) are used by some as a springboard to reach public positions or mandates.19 In many cases, media is just a way to help them achieve this goal. Although collaboration between 17 CENI: www.ceni.mg; during the second round of the presidential election in 2018, the site of the National commission was temporarily unavailable. 18 A business operator has made a commercial offer providing a week-long access to Facebook at US$0.13. 19 The president of the High Constitutional Court is a former member of the SEFAFI. The same with the president of the CSI, as well as the prime minister. Several senior government officials have once been active within CSOs. 19 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MADAGASCAR 2019