Editorial Policy Based on International Professional and Ethical Standards of Journalism
1. Preamble:
This editorial policy embodies the international standards of journalism, emphasizing accuracy, fairness, impartiality, humanity, and accountability. It serves as a guide to ensure the highest level of professional conduct and the responsible dissemination of information.
2. Accuracy and Verification:
- Every effort will be made to report news accurately and without bias.
- Information will be gathered from reliable and credible sources. When unsure of information, we will refrain from publication until verification.
- Rumors, conjectures, or unverified facts will not be presented as news.
3. Fairness and Impartiality:
- All stories will represent a balanced view, with equal opportunities provided to opposing parties to present their side.
- Personal beliefs or affiliations of journalists will not influence news reporting.
4. Independence:
- Journalists should remain free from influences by government, corporations, advertisers, or any vested interests. Any potential conflict of interest will be disclosed.
- No gifts, favors, or benefits will be accepted which might influence or seem to influence our coverage.
5. Humanity:
- We will always treat individuals with respect and dignity. We will be particularly sensitive when dealing with children, victims, or anyone vulnerable.
- Content that may cause harm or offend, such as graphic violence or explicit material, will only be published if it carries significant news value. Clear warnings will precede such content.
6. Accountability:
- Recognizing that journalists are accountable to their readers, viewers, and listeners, errors will be promptly corrected with transparency and clarity.
- A mechanism for audience feedback and complaints will be provided, and they will be addressed with seriousness and urgency.
7. Right to Privacy:
- Every individual’s right to privacy will be respected. Intruding into someone’s private life, without consent, is acceptable only when there is an overriding public interest.
- We will avoid identifying victims of sex crimes and minors involved in criminal cases, to protect their identity and dignity.
8. Protection of Sources:
- Journalists will protect the identity of confidential sources under all circumstances. This ensures the flow of information in the public interest without endangering the source.
9. Avoiding Plagiarism:
- Every piece of work published will be original, or properly attributed. Plagiarism, in any form, will not be tolerated.
10. Non-discrimination:
- No content will be produced that discriminates or promotes discrimination based on race, gender, religion, nationality, disability, or sexual orientation.
- Stereotypes that perpetuate bias will be avoided.
11. Commercial Considerations:
- Editorial decisions will not be influenced by commercial or advertiser interests.
- Advertisements and sponsored content will be clearly distinguishable from editorial content.
12. Digital and Social Media:
- The same journalistic standards apply to digital and social media as to traditional media.
- Rumors or unverified information from social media will not be published without verification.
13. Continuous Training:
- The organization will regularly conduct training sessions and workshops for its staff to keep abreast of the highest standards of journalism and ethics.
14. Review and Amendments:
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure that it remains relevant and in tune with changing times and global standards.
