Africa

Madagascar

{This graph represents scores that have been modified by CIMA so that higher scores indicate a better media situation. It is intended to show trends over time; each index measures significantly different factors of press freedom. To see an explanation for how this graph was created, click here.}

IREX Score: 1.86	[IREX Methodology]
{Higher is Better, Score Ranges from 0 to 4.00}

IREX Description:

Madagascar was shaken by an unprecedented political crisis in 2009. Opposition members overthrew President Marc Ravalomanana. Ongoing strikes and demonstrations followed, resulting in huge economic losses for the country, unemployment for thousands of workers, and widespread insecurity.

The violence has affected journalists deeply. In the first quarter of 2009, Ravalomanana's government continually harassed journalists and media that featured news on the opposition, including Viva and Antsiva radio stations. Meanwhile, at the peak of the strike movement, demonstrators targeted pro-government media specifically. Arsonists attacked national channels, including RNM and TVM; MBS radio and television channels; and other media organizations belonging to president Ravalomanana's TIKO group, such as Radio Mada and Le Quotidien newspaper. In the second quarter of 2009, the situation quieted down somewhat, but retaliation continued against media. The crisis has had some positive effects, however; the public has a revived appetite for news, and blogging is on the rise as a forum for serious political debate.

The loss in the overall MSI score reflects how seriously the political crisis has threatened media stability. All objectives except for Objective 4, business management, lost ground and fell into the "unsustainable, mixed system" score category.

Africa

Madagascar

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Freedom House Score: 64 (Not Free)	[Freedom House Methodology]
{Lower is Better, Score Ranges from 0 to 100}