A new code of ethics designed for digital media, journalists and content creators by IMS, Mediastan and partner IRADA is expected to provide guidance for ethical dilemmas of newsgathering and distribution in the cyber space. The code of ethics covers journalistic prinicples and inclusion as well as digital responsiveness. Read the code of ethics below.
Journalistic Principles
Accuracy and Truth
- Commit unwaveringly to truth and accuracy in all reporting.
- Verify all information meticulously before publication, using multiple credible sources.
- Clearly distinguish between facts, commentary, and opinions.
- Promptly correct errors, giving corrections appropriate prominence.
- Provide context to prevent misrepresentation or oversimplification.
Fairness and Impartiality
- Present news objectively, avoiding personal bias.
- Seek and include diverse perspectives, especially from underrepresented groups.
- Offer right of reply to those criticized or accused in reporting.
- Avoid stereotyping and examine how personal values may shape reporting.
- Use neutral language and tone in news reports.
Independence
- Maintain strict separation between editorial content and commercial interests.
- Disclose any unavoidable conflicts of interest transparently.
- Refuse gifts, favors, or special treatment that may compromise integrity.
- Resist internal and external pressures that could influence coverage.
- Declare and clear any outside activities that may affect impartiality with supervisors.
Social Responsibility
Respect for Rights
- Avoid discrimination in reporting based on race, gender, religion, or other factors.
- Protect the rights of individuals, especially vulnerable groups and minors.
- Respect privacy unless overridden by legitimate public interest.
- Obtain consent when interviewing or photographing victims of tragedy or crime.
Minimizing Harm
- Show compassion for those affected by news coverage.
- Consider the potential impact of reporting on individuals and communities.
- Exercise caution when dealing with non-public figures.
- Avoid sensationalism in reporting on violence, crime, or disasters.
Accountability
- Be accountable for the accuracy and fairness of reporting.
- Engage with the public and respond to their concerns.
- Establish clear procedures for handling complaints and corrections.
- Regularly review and update ethical guidelines to reflect changing societal norms.
Digital Responsiveness
Use of ICTs and Social Media
- Maintain professional standards across all digital platforms.
- Verify information obtained from social media before publication.
- Disclose professional affiliation when using social media for work purposes.
- Exercise caution in sharing personal opinions that may compromise impartiality.
User-Generated Content
- Verify and attribute user-generated content appropriately.
- Clearly label user-generated content to distinguish it from editorial content.
- Respect copyright and intellectual property rights.
- Establish guidelines for moderating user comments on digital platforms.
Emerging Technologies
- Exercise caution when using AI and other emerging technologies in journalism.
- Maintain human oversight and judgment in AI-assisted reporting.
- Be transparent about the use of AI in content creation and curation.
- Regularly update skills to keep pace with technological advancements.
Data Journalism and Visualization
- Ensure accuracy in data collection, analysis, and presentation.
- Provide context and explain methodology in data-driven stories.
- Use visualizations responsibly to avoid misrepresentation of data.
- Protect privacy when handling large datasets.
Ethical Newsgathering
Sourcing
- Use fair and transparent methods to obtain information.
- Protect confidential sources while encouraging on-the-record communication.
- Clearly identify sources and their potential biases or conflicts of interest.
- Avoid anonymous sources unless absolutely necessary for public interest.
Undercover and Surreptitious Methods
- Use undercover or surreptitious methods only when traditional, open methods fail to yield vital public interest information.
- Obtain editorial approval before employing such methods.
- Disclose to the audience when such methods have been used.
Financial Journalism
- Maintain strict separation between financial reporting and personal investments.
- Disclose any personal financial interests related to coverage.
- Avoid using non-public information for personal financial gain.
Diversity and Inclusion
Representation
- Strive for diversity in sources, perspectives, and newsroom staff.
- Avoid perpetuating stereotypes in language, imagery, or story selection.
- Regularly audit content for balanced representation of diverse communities.
Cultural Sensitivity
- Develop cultural competence to report accurately on diverse communities.
- Consult with cultural experts when reporting on unfamiliar communities or practices.
- Use appropriate and respectful language when referring to different groups.