WAY FORWARD The way forward 1. What were the developments in the media environment in the last three/four years? Positive: • • • • • • • • • • • • The media is less aggressive Better management of newspapers Greater respect for first generation rights Emergence of new rights (access to information) Greater political will to comply with regional and international standards Increased promotion of pluralism Less interference by the political authorities Greater openness towards the political class Less taboos More diversified programmes New actors Transition to digital production Negative: • • • • • Quality is deteriorating Greater instability among media practitioners Deteriorating working conditions for journalists Increased numbers of untrained media practitioners Loss of momentum in promoting the interests of women and minorities 2. What kinds of activities are needed over the next 3-4 years? • • • • Increase the number of targeted training courses Apply penalties for breaches in ethical and professional standards Create a healthy spirit of competition between media practitioners Press associations have to take initiatives in this direction AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER TOGO 2017 109