State media practice broad self-censorship and rarely question or criticize government policies. Several private radio stations and community radio stations have begun broadcasting. Few private newspapers publish, and the lack of vibrant independent media may be more due to financial constraints than government interference. Most people follow traditional religions, but proselytizing is permitted and there is a significant Muslim population, as well as a small Christian minority. While official registration is required, no religious group has been denied registration since 1982, and religious freedom is respected.
Women face some legal and significant traditional and societal discrimination.
They generally do not receive equal pay for equal work and have fewer opportunities for education and jobs in the small formal sector. Domestic violence against women is common, and female genital mutilation is widespread. Eleven labor unions operate, and workers have the right to organize and to strike with prior notice. The vast majority of Guinea-Bissau s 1.2 million citizens survive on subsistence farming. Cashew nuts are a key export.