The Constitution provides for freedom of speech and the press, and the Government respects these in practice. There are nearly 50 independent newspapers and journals, in French and local languages, including 2 independent daily newspapers. The Government controls the only television station, two of many radio stations, and one of the three daily newspapers, but these all operate on a semi-independent basis and present a wide range of views, including those critical of the Government, the President, the Prime Minister, and other politicians. Seven independent radio stations exist in Bamako and several others operate in regional capitals. French cable television began rebroadcasting operations in September, and the Government has taken initial steps toward private television licensing.
Academic freedom is respected.
The Constitution provides for these rights, and the Government respects them in practice. The Government does not interfere with political meetings, which take place openly. The Constitution provides for freedom of religion and declares Mali to be a secular state. The Government does not discriminate on religious grounds, and citizens are free to practice their faiths. Although legal restrictions on the Baha'i faith still exist, the Government does not enforce them, and Baha'i worship freely.