Media outlets are divided along linguistic and ethnic lines, with state-run and private operators offering services in the main languages. Media outlets are divided along ethnic lines
Many of the main broadcasters and publications are state-owned, including two major TV stations, radio networks operated by the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), and newspapers in Sinhala, Tamil and English.
There are more than a dozen private radio stations, and eight privately-run TV stations. Sri Lanka's privately-owned press and broadcasters often engage in political debate, and criticise government policies.
But the country is one of the most dangerous places in the world for journalists. In late 2008, a grouping of international media freedom groups noted a deteriorating situation, marked by "murders, attacks, abductions, intimidation and harassment of the media".
Reporters Without Borders says the media come under pressure from the authorities, while the Tamil Tigers "allow no dissident voices" in the areas they control.
The internet is a growing medium for news; many papers have online editions. There were more than 770,000 internet users by March 2008 according to world telecoms body, the ITU.
BBC World Service programmes in Sinhala and Tamil are relayed by SLBC under an agreement between the two broadcasters.
BBC
