There were no known cases of arbitrary interference with privacy, including with correspondence. The Paris-based Indian Ocean Newsletter, which is often highly critical of the Government, arrives unhindered through the international mail. The Constitution provides for freedom of expression, thought, and conscience, and Comorians discussed and criticized the Government and its leading personalities openly. A wide spectrum of political views was aired throughout the year. Comorians can receive radio broadcasts from Mayotte and two French television stations without interference.
Satellite antennas are popular, and amateur radio licenses are granted without hindrance.
Several small independent newspapers are published, and they operate without interference and freely criticize the Government. The weekly semiofficial newspaper also publishes articles critical of some government policies. Lack of funds and illiteracy are the biggest obstacles to a wide press audience. Foreign journals and newspapers are available, as are books from abroad. The Constitution provides for freedom of assembly and association.