SECTOR 4 4.2 The media follow voluntary codes of professional standards, which are enforced by independent/nonstatutory bodies that deal with complaints from the public. The majority of media do not respect ethics and the code of conduct. The nonrespect of the principle of balanced information is the mistake that is often made, showing that journalists have a strong tendency to take sides. Panellists noted that, fortunately, the Conseil National de la Presse (CNP) and l’Observatoire de la Liberté de la Presse, de l’Ethique et de la Déontologie (OLPED) act as watchdogs in order to bring the media in line with the principles of accuracy and equity. It is even possible for readers to lay complaints with these bodies. OLPED auto-regulates, CNP regulates and the two complement each other in their functions and activities in the framework of the print media. The CNP may also act upon its own initiative, even if it also conducts conciliation. But in the absence of the publication of the rights to respond, the CNP has the policing powers to reestablish the rights of the applicant. The HACA receives complaints concerning broadcasting. From 2012 to 2016, there has been a conscientious effort by journalists to better respect the code of ethics. Furthermore, during the electoral period of 2015, the editors signed the Charter of Editors, which flows from the code of ethics. 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: 2.6 (2012 = 3.2, 2009 = 2.4) AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER Côte d’Ivoire 2016 103