Police frequently use excessive force against suspects, causing several deaths in recent years, and continue to abuse detainees and prisoners. In the highlands, police occasionally burn homes to punish communities suspected of harboring criminals or of participating in tribal warfare, which has killed dozens of people in recent years, or to punish crimes committed by individuals. The private press vigorously reports on corruption and other sensitive matters. The state-run radio s news coverage is generally balanced. There is a private television station.
Nongovernmental organizations are active and outspoken.
In rural areas foreign logging companies frequently swindle villagers and often renege on promises to build schools and hospitals. Women face significant, unofficial discrimination in education and employment opportunities. Rape and domestic violence are serious problems. Many refugees have accepted a 1998 government offer of permanent residency. Unions are independent, and workers can and do bargain collectively and stage strikes.