Expression in Cape Verde

While the media sector is relatively small, it is dynamic and marked by real pluralism. Community and private radio and television stations operate alongside state-owned media. Citizens and journalists alike enjoy freedom of opinion and they can work freely on sensitive issues including drug trafficking and immigration. The authorities encourage the use of social media and the Internet by citizens. Although only 40% of people accessed the Internet in 2014, access has grown rapidly and several areas in major cities have free Internet access. Articles 45 and 46 of the constitution guarantee freedom of expression, information and press freedom, rights which are respected in practice by the authorities, although permission is required for the publication of a newspaper. The Union of Journalists has criticised aspects of a new Electoral Code, which restrict the media’s ability to report freely on campaigns, candidates and political views for two months before an election takes place. Access to information by citizens is also facilitated, provided that the information requested does not concern the security or defence of the state.