African Media Barometer Mauritius

Radio is the most popular media product in Mauritius, followed closely by specific television programmes. Expansion in the media sector has provided journalists the opportunity to improve their bargaining power and their positions within organisations. Salaries have risen and working conditions at some of the media are getting even better. Financial remuneration in the media industry is largely dependent on profile, branding and the negotiation skills of journalists.

Freedom of expression has always been guaranteed under Section 12 of the Constitution of Mauritius. Within the same section, limitations are possible in the “interests of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health.” All of these are rather broad terms that are open for interpretation.

The ruling party also uses state television or radio to start discussions around certain issues and steers people to think in a certain way. If the State wants to effectively communicate with the citizenry it will broadcast its message on the 7:30pm news on television, as 70 percent of Mauritians tune in to the main news bulletin of the day.