Rules & Regulations
This Code of Ethics has been formulated for media organizations, editors, correspondents, and all associated staff to promote high standards, accuracy, transparency, and responsibility in journalism. Its purpose is to maintain a fair balance between individuals’ right to privacy and the public’s right to know.
This Code applies equally to print, online, and all digital platforms.
1. Professional Standards
Journalists and media organizations have a fundamental responsibility to maintain the highest professional standards. Both the letter and the spirit of this Code must be respected. It should neither be interpreted so narrowly that it restricts freedom of expression, nor so broadly that it endangers individual rights.
2. Accuracy and Transparency
Inaccurate, misleading, or distorted information and images must not be published.
Any significant error must be corrected promptly, and an apology issued when necessary.
A clear distinction must be maintained between news, opinion, and analysis.
In matters involving defamation, reporting must be accurate, fair, and impartial.
3. Right of Reply
If published content creates a misleading impression about any individual or organization, they must be given a fair opportunity to respond, clarify, or present their position.
4. Respect for Privacy
Everyone’s private, family, home, and personal life must be respected.
Photography or video recording in private places without permission is prohibited.
Any intrusion into privacy must be clearly justified and in the public interest.
5. Harassment and Undue Pressure
No individual should be harassed or subjected to undue pressure.
If a person refuses to speak, be photographed, or answer questions, journalists must respect that decision.
Forcing entry into someone’s home or private premises is strictly prohibited.
6. Hospitals and Sensitive Locations
Permission must be obtained before gathering information in hospitals or private institutions.
The privacy of patients, their families, and associated individuals must be safeguarded.
7. Coverage of Crime
The identities of relatives, friends, or associates of suspects must not be disclosed unless clearly necessary.
Special care must be taken in reporting crimes involving children, while ensuring that legal proceedings are not obstructed.
8. Confidential Sources and Information Gathering
The unlawful use of hidden cameras, recordings, emails, or messages is prohibited.
Covert methods of obtaining information may only be used when no other means are available and when the matter is clearly in the public interest.
9. Discrimination and Prejudice
Reporting must not promote discrimination based on religion, race, color, ethnicity, gender, disability, or social background.
An individual’s identity should only be disclosed when it is genuinely relevant to the story.
10. Financial Journalism and Conflict of Interest
Insider or confidential financial information must not be used for personal gain.
Stock market, investment, or business information must not be shared with family or friends for benefit.
Journalists should not invest in companies they are reporting on.
11. Protection of Sources
The confidentiality of information sources must be fully protected.
Sources must not be disclosed under pressure or for personal or external interests.
12. Judicial and Legal Matters
Payments must not be offered to witnesses or potential witnesses in legal cases.
No payment should be made that could influence testimony.