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Editorial Code

This code was drafted and endorsed by the Global Voices Community on August 5, 2013.

  • Be as accurate as possible.
  • Identify sources whenever feasible. Our readers are entitled to as much information as possible on our sources.
  • Admit mistakes and correct them promptly.
  • Never plagiarize.
  • Be true to GV values. 1
    • Avoid stereotyping by race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, geography, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance or social status.
    • Be aware of the labels you attach to individuals, people and groups. Question terms, names, photos or practices used in other media and by governments – only use labels that are in line with our code and values.
    • Build community and encourage meaningful conversation through our reporting.
  • Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived.
    • Be transparent and disclose unavoidable conflicts.
    • Distinguish between advocacy and news reporting. Analysis and commentary should be labeled and not misrepresent fact or context. 2
    • Distinguish news from promotional material. Do not blur the lines between the two.
    • Be honest; never misrepresent the relative size, importance or popularity of initiatives you are associated with.
  • Minimize harm in your reporting.
    • Use special sensitivity when dealing with children and photos of children. 3
    • Be judicious about naming criminal suspects before the formal filing of charges.
    • Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause harm to certain subjects and sources. Show compassion and responsibility for those who may be affected adversely in your reporting.Put safety of sources and subjects above any other consideration, suggest anonymity when you are concerned that revealing their identity could lead to harm.
    • Be cautious about identifying juvenile suspects or victims of sex crimes. Be aware that identifying and/or naming juvenile suspects or victims of sex crimes is illegal in some countries.
    • Be responsible when reporting on stories related to suicide.4
    • Be aware that people are ostracized for their beliefs and can even be persecuted for their beliefs or lifestyle in parts of the world. Be cautious in your language that describes a person’s relationship to their belief system, religious, political or otherwise.

    GV Editorial code inspired and produced from the SPJ Code of Ethics

    1. We believe in free speech, and in bridging the gulfs that divide people.
    2. Coverage on Global Voices Advocacy is understood to be “labeled” as fact-based reporting that prioritizes the protection of human rights online.
    3. Read UNICEF's guidelines for reporting on children.
    4. We add this note to GV stories that deal with suicide.

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