The government monopoly over electronic media is complete except for a radio station operated by political allies of Sassou-Nguesso. However, broadcasts from neighboring countries are widely heard. A July 1996 law imposed registration requirements and severe penalties for slander and defamation. A 1995 law also provides stronger penalties for defamation of senior officials, requires media to show loyalty to the government, and permits seizure of private printing works during emergencies. There is extensive self-censorship.
Women suffer extensive legal and societal discrimination despite constitutional protections.
Access to education and employment opportunities, especially in the countryside, are limited, and civil codes regarding family and marriage formalize women s inferior status. Adultery is legal for men, but not for women. Polygyny is legal, while polyandry is not. Violence against women reportedly is widespread and increased substantially during the war. Discrimination against Pygmy groups is also reported.