SECTOR 4 4.1 The standard of reporting follows basic principles of accuracy and fairness Target audiences often question the way in which journalists process information. The panel strongly emphasised that, in many cases, the line separating facts and opinions is quite thin. Biased and interesting comments take priority over facts. This situation is fuelled by the great level of disparity among journalists. Professionalism remains weak because misinformation often overwhelms factchecked and verifiable information. Sometimes people pass on inaccurate information and twisted facts. The proliferation of online media and news provided via social network exacerbates the trend towards misinformation. Some pages simply report information seen elsewhere, without stating sources or any fact-checking. Quality of information processing also depends on the political affiliation of the station or newspaper. Political interference in the newsrooms creates harmful interference in information processing. The panel pointed out that in order to access quality information or to get the real idea of a situation, it is necessary watch several channels, listen to several radio stations and read many newspapers. Some organisations close to the government publish information that is sympathetic to the government. Despite this, there is a growing awareness among journalists and media owners. Media professionals, especially experienced journalists, are managing to survive. There are many training opportunities and the profession is attracting more and more young people. For example, in 2012 the Friedrich-Ebert-Siftung initiated the “Training of Young Journalists” (FDJ) and in 2019 the Group of Publishers of News Media, Multimedia in Madagascar (GEPIMM) launched its “Passport to Journalism”.31 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: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ 2.9 2006: 2.9; 2008: 2.5; 2010: 2; 2012: 2.8; 2016: 2.3 31 The GEPIMM, the association Actions Média Francophone (AMF-Africamedias) and other partners issued "My passport to journalism" in 2019. It is aimed at journalists who graduate from a recognised training curriculum. 41 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MADAGASCAR 2019