R12 - Guidelines for journalists

A good, even better journalist

-It is crucial to observe good professional practice when using the work of others. The source must be mentioned when the information has been published by another party.

-A journalist is primarily responsible to the readers, listeners and viewers. They have the right to know what is happening in society

-The journalist has the right to conceal the identity of any person who has provided confidential information. The editorial office must respect this principle.

-Information sources must be approached critically. This is particularly important in controversial issues, since the source of the information may be pursuing personal gain or to damage others.

-In interviews, the interviewee must always be told whether the conversation is intended for publication or will be used exclusively as background material

-Incorrect information must be corrected immediately

-If it is not possible to simultaneously hear the views of the parties involved, it may be necessary to give the party which has received the very negative publicity the opportunity to be heard afterwards. If this is not done, good journalistic practice calls for the publication of the comment of the party criticised.

-Highly delicate matters in one's personal life may only be published with the consent of the person in question, or if such matters are of considerable public interest. Protection of privacy must also be considered when using photographic materials.

-The identity of a victim of a highly sensitive crime must be protected unless the matter is of considerable public interest.

-Differentiate between fact and opinion.

-Avoids plagiarism

-Produce no material likely to lead to hatred or discrimination on the grounds of a person’s age, gender, race, colour, creed, legal status, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation.


http://ethicnet.uta.fi/finland/guidelines_for_journalists
http://www.nuj.org.uk/about/nuj-code/

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These codes are important in journalism because they consider the safety of people and respects views and opinions. Without, for example, the code to not use incorrect information or false sources may cause controversy affecting the position of the journalist and safety.

In law matters it is especially important to consider the codes. Many criminal cases are affected because of the influence of media. For example, in some cases a defendant on trial is judged by the jurors straight away because of the news coverage and the description of the defendant. This often creates an unfair judgement.

When conducting a good interview the journalist should respect the person they are interviewing and stick to the matter of the topic/subject. Disrespecting the interviewee and mentioning personal subjects can give the journalist a bad name and reputation.