Accurate Reporting and Media Ethics Contact Kızılırmak Mahallesi Mevlana Bulv. No: 144 Çukurambar Ankara/TÜRKİYE T +90 312 590 20 00 | webinfo@iletisim.gov.tr İhlas Matbaacılık Gazetecilik A.Ş. Printing Certificate No: 45589 Print Publisher Certificate No: 45482 1st Edition, İstanbul, 2024 © 2024 PUBLICATIONS BY THE PRESIDENCY’S DIRECTORATE OF COMMUNICATIONS Accurate Reporting and Media Ethics ISBN: 978-625-6281-36-3 Accurate Reporting and Media Ethics 4 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Preface 7 Introduction 9 Chapter I Media Membership 13 Duty 15 Responsibility 15 Independence 17 Factual and Accurate Reporting 18 Impartiality 19 Respect for Universal Human Rights 20 Credibility 21 Fairness 22 Chapter II News Source 25 Impartiality, Accuracy, and Fairness 27 Permission for Interviewing, Recording, and Visuals 28 Transparency 29 Competent Persons as Source of Information 29 Children, Youth, and Vulnerable Persons as Source of Information 30 Pre-Publication Verification 31 Research and Statistics 32 Confidentiality 33 Plagiarism 34 Illegitimately Acquired Sources 35 Using Information to Obtain Personal Benefits 36 Currency of Source and Re-enactment 36 Royalties 37 Publication Date 38 Use of Language 38 TABLE OF CONTENTS Accurate Reporting and Media Ethics Chapter III Presentation of the News 41 Presentation of the News in Relation to Interference with Individuals’ Right to Privacy and Civil Rights 43 Limits to Freedom of Expression 43 Judiciary News 44 Victim News 46 Minor Victims 46 News on Sexual Inviolability 47 Suicide News 47 Health Status News 49 Presentation of the News on the Basis of Public Safety and Public Interest 49 Prioritization of Public Interest 49 State Secret 50 Terror News 50 Crisis-Disaster News 53 Economy News 54 Presentation of Violence 55 Obscenity 57 Substance-Tobacco Addiction 57 Vulnerable Groups 59 Officials 60 Refugees 60 Discrimination and Incitement 61 Health News 63 Election Campaigns 64 Advertisements 65 Publication of Public Opinion 65 Surveys 66 Chapter IV Right to Correction and Reply 69 Correction 71 Readers’ Letters 72 Right to Reply 73 Chapter V Use of Social Media by Journalists 77 Responsibility 79 User Profile Account 80 Copyright 80 Credibility of Other Accounts 81 Use of Social Media in Crises 82 Language and Discourse 84 REFERENCES 86 PREFACE | 7 T he media, which plays an important role in individuals exercising their right to information and news and thus in strengthening democracy, fulfils its duty on behalf of the public based on the principle of “providing accurate and timely news to society.” This is possible only if journalism is practiced on the basis of ethical principles and with a professional perspective. Many media organisations have developed and implemented various professional principles in light of this fact. It is evident from looking at examples from around the world that the principles that fundamentally abide by personal rights, aim for free, impartial journalism based on facts for the public interest, recom- mend reporting from verified sources, and include feedback mech- anisms such as gatekeepers, reporters, editorial teams, and citizen representatives, as well as impartial and rights-based journalism control, are established. On the other hand, the systematic combination and implementation of these principles is envisaged to significantly improve the accuracy and reliability of journalism. Based on this foresight, the Presidency’s Directorate of Communi- cations of the Republic of Türkiye issued this guide in light of the principles compiled and systematised within the framework of glob- al examples with a view to assisting media members who strive for accurate reporting. PREFACE 8 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS INTRODUCTION | 9 INTRODUCTION T he primary media ethics standards are mainly based on code of ethics laid down on the axis of values such as truth- fulness, honesty, independence, objectivity, and impar- tiality. The aim is to establish credibility by means of the code of ethics that should govern media activities. With the speed and prevalence of internet media and social media, the problems and de- bates surrounding media ethics have shifted to a different dimension, transcending the boundaries of conventional media. Conventional media, internet media, and social media all face ethical issues related to information pollution, disinformation, fake news, violation of privacy, hate speech, as well as advertising, -copyright, and commercial orientation. Social and internet media, in particular, are environments in which the professional code of ethics is ignored and reputations are eroded, resulting in numerous violations. Unfor- tunately, abuses and ethical violations have increased in communica- tion settings where non-professional media workers are also involved in content production. The media, which plays an important role in enabling individuals to exercise their right to receive information and news, thereby strength- ening democracy, can only fufill this function through -professional production that adheres to ethical principles. The systematic appli- cation of these principles will reveal the vital role that accurate and reliable journalism plays in democracy. As expressed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, “Relaying the -truth to the reader and the viewer in its simplest form is a must for this profession.” The greatest responsibility for upholding media eth- ics undoubtedly falls on journalists. Members of the press who ad- 10 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS PRESIDENCY’S HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS OF THE REPUBLIC OF TÜRKİYE PROF. FAHRETTIN ALTUN here to media ethics will continue to be the guarantors of the profes- sion’s prestige and reliability. I believe that this guide, prepared by the Presidency’s Directorate of Communications in light of the principles compiled and systematised within the framework of international examples of media ethics, will be a valuable resource for media professionals and researchers. The guide includes principles categorised under the headings of “Media Member- ship,” “News Source,” “Presentation of the News ,” “Right of Correction or Reply,” and “Use of Social Media by Journalists,” based on an review of the code of ethics adopted in the field of media worldwide. I would like to thank everyone who helped with the preparation of this work and wish success to our journalists who uphold media eth- ics and never deviate from the path of truth. INTRODUCTION | 11 12 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS MEDIA MEMBERSHIP | 13 01 Media Membership 14 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS MEDIA MEMBERSHIP Responsibility Duty • The primary duty of the media member when relaying news is to disseminate information and opinions on all matters of public interest in consistency with their responsibilities. • A member of the media is authorised to and also responsible for monitoring, investigating, evaluating, and disseminating infor- mation about events and thus informing, teaching, -enlightening, and guiding people. • The primary responsibility of a member of the media is to -re- spect the public’s right to know the truth and to provide the pub- lic with accurate and thorough information about the facts. • Regardless of the consequences for themselves, media -members must protect society’s right to know and learn the -truth. 1 16 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • Members of the media must be responsible to the public before their employers and public authorities. • Members of the media should be aware that they are accountable for everything they write. • Members of the media should be aware that they will be perceived as media professionals also in relation to their work outside the profession. • Members of the media should not abuse their freedom of expres- sion or the opportunities afforded by their profession for person- al gain, fulfilment of personal desires, or profit for themselves or other people or organisations, and should not use their name and profession for advertising or commercial purposes. • A media member must not be involved in libel, defamation, and publications in violation of human dignity, must avoid unwar- ranted accusations, and refrain from bribery or receiving gifts for publishing or concealing certain news reports. • A media member must not hinder their colleagues from obtain- ing news, and mislead them deliberately. • A media member must never plagiarise. • A media member must not forward their work to a different out- let without their editor’s permission. MEDIA MEMBERSHIP | 17 Independence Advertising or sponsorship must never influence an article, comment, or news content, and the media member must not compromise objectivity. Staff of the editorial office must accept assignments exclusively from their supervisors. A media member must not yield to external influence, must resist the media outlet’s acts of interference in the news content, and form the content on their own through editorial judgement. Freedom of the press1 is a key concept within the scope of freedom of expression. The press should enjoy the right to collect, publish, and comment on information without any obstruction. Adhering to the principle of free- dom of expression in public ations is essential. A media member must not accept any direct or indirect pecuniary interest from third parties for the pub-lication of any ideas or news. 18 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Factual and Accurate Reporting MEDIA MEMBERSHIP | 19 • A media member must endeavour to ensure the accuracy and objec- tivity of the news reports they publish or broadcast and must prevent distortions caused by misrepresentation or misunderstanding. • The distinction between the content and comments of the news re- port must be clearly presented. Comments must be made only on general thoughts or daily events. • Images and voices must not be susceptible to manipulation. • A media member must not alter documents associated with the news, conceal news on matters of public concern or social signifi- cance, or overlook substantial details. • Headlines, spots, photographs and sub-headings must not diverge from the truth. • A media member must refrain from sensationalising news topics through- out the process of content production and resist potential pressures in this direction from within or outside the realm of the media. Impartiality 20 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • All sorts of benefits derived from news plagiarism, distortion of facts, libel, degrading or baseless allegations, and manipulating the news must be deemed a grave offence to the profession of journal- ism and betrayal of public trust. • A media member must always advocate for the principle of freedom of the press.and struggle to eliminate misrepresentation and censor- ship. • Generalisations based on a single event must be avoided. Respect for Universal Human Rights • A media member must not discriminate against any race, ethnic- ity, religion, or class or make degrading remarks. • Utmost care should be taken to ensure that broadcasting services align with morals, safeguarding of the family, as well as the na- tional and spiritual values of the society. MEDIA MEMBERSHIP | 21 • Media members who abuse the privileges of their profession for self-serving or baseless reasons betray public trust. • News must not contain surreptitious advertising. Advertisements must be featured distinctively. • Media members should not consider potential disagreements or personal benefits in their reporting and compromise the princi- ples of reporting. • The public should be encouraged to voice their complaints against the media and possible mistakes should be accepted and corrected as soon as possible. • A media member should avoid attitudes and behaviours likely to cause unease among the public in releasing a news report. • By not releasing a news report of public concern for personal in- terest or other reasons , the media member will have obstructed the freedom of information of the public. • A media member must neither manipulate the speech by the in- terviewee , nor the meaning or purpose of the interview. • A media member must act with complete honesty and objectivity to ensure the credibility and fairness of the news content pub- lished under their signature, alias, or anonymously with their knowledge and approval. Credibility 22 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • In producing news content, a media member must respect per- sonal rights, observe the moral rules embraced by the majority of the society, be accountable to the public for the acc-uracy and fairness of their news reports, and those who are publicly accused must be given the right to reply at the earliest convenience. • A media member must respect the professional rights of their colleagues and carry out their activities according to the rules of fair competition. A media member must not undermine their col- leagues’ interests. • Media members or outlets must not engage in unethical competi- tion to increase commercial income and must not resort to illegal means incompatible with ethical journalism. • Initiatives that undermine the commercial reputation of other media outlets and unfair competition by extreme price reduction do not comply with journalism ethics. • A media member must refrain from deliberately and explicitly causing professional harm to a colleague for the sake of competi- tion, and must not act in a way that would hinder the publication of a colleague. Fairness MEDIA MEMBERSHIP | 23 24 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS NEWS SOURCE | 25 02 News Source 26 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Impartiality, Accuracy and Fairness • The principle that the news must be based on a source is essential. • A member of the media must ensure that the information used is accurate, impartial, and fair, and the source of in- formation is reliable. • No justification exists for the dissemination of unverifiedor inaccurate information. NEWS SOURCE 2 28 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Permission for Interviewing, Recording, and Visuals • Members of the media must not obtain news and images by in- timidation or harassment. • Members of the media must acknowledge and respect the right of private and legal persons to withhold information and decline to re- spond to questions without prejudice to their right to information. • Individuals’ private properties must not be filmed without their consent. • The author’s or their inheritors’ consent must be obtained before publishing private letters. • It is ideal to receive the interviewees’ approval for the final ver- sion of the interview. However, in the event that approval cannot be obtained due to time constraints, the interviewee must be no- tified in advance of the interview’s publication. • The interviewee must be informed about the circumstances and context in which their statements will be used, such as whetheror not they will be published directly or used as a source. • Violation of the honour and dignity of the bystander, whose im- ages were incidentally obtained⁣, must be avoided when utilising street images. NEWS SOURCE | 29 Transparency Competent Persons as Source of Information • Media members have the right to professional confidentiality. Nevertheless, they are obligated to guarantee the reliability of the information source. • A media member must always disclose their identity and profes- sion when collecting information. • Members of the media must disclose the unverified information and photomontages in their work • The information obtained from a person in distress, in a state of shock, or someone interacting with a member of the media for the first time must be given due consideration by media members. • A member of the media must not use audio or video recording if the person conveying the informa- tion has any objections, is under stress or in a state of shock, or has a physical disability. 30 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Children, Youth, and Vulnerable Persons as Source of Information • Minors, youth, and individuals who are not at their full mental or physical capacity or are in a highly emotional state must not be exploited in order to obtain information. • Children must not be interviewed, photographed, or filmed with- out the presence of their guardian or parents or the consent of their parents, irrespective of the existence of any factors that may or may not influence a child’s personality or behaviour. • Students must not be approached or photographed at school without the permission of the school administration. • Children should not be asked questions on complex issues that they cannot answer due to their age. NEWS SOURCE | 31 Pre-Publication Verification • The media member is responsible for verifying information ob- tained from sources. • A member of the media must fulfil an interviewee’s request to check the accuracy of any private information they provided be- fore publishing the interview. • An editor must verify the accuracy of accusations from various sources before publicising a news item or comment accusing a person. 32 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Research and Statistics • The accuracy of the news report must be checked by using all sources and with the utmost care to eliminate any potential errors. • The facts motivating the source of the news must be examined. • Members of the media have the right to access any source of in- formation on matters of public concern. If their request to access such information is denied without a valid reason, they reserve the right to notify the public. • Statistical data must be used within its scope and without dis- torting its findings. • The news report must cite the source of the statistical data. NEWS SOURCE | 33 Confidentiality • A member of the media must keep confidential news sources as a professional secret. • No one can force a member of the media to disclose the sources of news. • A media member must comply with an interviewee’s request for their statements not to publicly disclosed. • This should also hold true for background interviews and brief- ings with agreed-upon confidentiality. • Media broadcasters must preserve confidential public informa- tion and sources with utmost sensitivity. • Members of the media cannot use significant confidential infor- mation obtained in the exercise of their professional duties to gain personal benefit. 34 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Plagiarism • Publicising another journalist’s news without citing a source con- stitutes the offence of plagiarism. • When using a colleague’s work in any manner, a member of the media must consult the author or the owner of the work. • If a member of the media claims another person’s work, in part or as a whole as their own, without citing the original author or the source of the quotation, their professional reputation will be tarnished. • If an additional source is used in the publication, even if only in part, the source must be cited. NEWS SOURCE | 35 • In journalism, illegitimate methods must not be used to obtain information, photographs, and documents. • Information and photographs must not be obtained through ha- rassment or stalking. • A media member must not violate the privacy of the person who is the subject of the news to obtain information, audio, and video. • Private conversations must not be intercepted to obtain sourc- es, and the images, documents, and information obtained in this manner cannot be published. • Members of the media must not obtain or attempt to obtain in- formation or photographs through false statements or deception. Illegitimately Acquired Sources 36 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • Before such material is made public, a member of the media must not use the information obtained in the course of their duties to obtain personal benefits. • Media members must not use the confidential information ob- tained through their profession for the benefit of their relatives either. • The currency of the published photograph or image must be ex- plicitly stated. • The archival nature of the images used must be clearly indicated. • In re-enactment, this situation should be stated in a way that the audience will understand it. • Re-enactment must not be misleading. • In live broadcasts, the term “live” must be explicitly indicated and verbally conveyed. Using Information to Obtain Personal Benefits Currency of Source and Re-enactment NEWS SOURCE | 37 • For a member of the media, copyright protection is a fundamen- tal moral responsibility. • The explicit or tacit appropriation of ideas and works, in whole or in part, constitutes an unacceptable breach of responsibility. • In urgent cases where material is to be taken from other publica- tions without the copyright holder’s immediate permission, such material must be used with reasonable brevity and limited cita- tions, and the source must be properly referenced. • In using or reproducing any substantial part of copyrighted ma- terial, special permission should be obtained if the material spec- ifies that such permission is required from the copyright holder. Royalties 38 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • The timeframe set for the publication date must be respected. • A member of the media must adhere to the source’s requirements regarding the publication date of information or documents, ex- cluding those they have directly obtained. • In publications, utmost attention must be paid to the compliance of the lexical rules. • Attention should be paid to the language employed, avoiding vul- gar and slang expressions. Publication Date Use of Language PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 39 40 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 41 03 Presentation of the News 42 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS 3 • Where freedom of expression conflicts with other fundamental rights, it falls upon the editor to determine which right takes precedence. • In the exercise freedom of expression, individuals’ legitimate ex- pectations regarding their privacy must be respected. • Members of the media must respect the honour and dignity of the individuals they report on. • Derogatory remarks or comments regarding diseases or physical ailments affecting the person, as well as race, nationality, social group, or gender, must not be included in news reports. • Members of the media are responsible for abstaining from making derogatory statements that may cause moral or physical injury. Limits to Freedom of Expression Presentation of the News in Relation to Interference with Individuals’ Right to Privacy and Civil Rights 44 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Judiciary News • If the name of the individual is not to be published, the media member must not provide details such as photographs, occupa- tion, status, age, nationality, gender, etc. that could lead to the identification of the individual in question. • Members of the media should always respect the principle of pre- sumption of innocence in reporting. • It is just and proper that the identities of suspects are revealed only after formal charges have been brought against them. • There should be no initial evaluation of violations, and no bias should be introduced. No speculation should be made on the de- cision of a court or authority. • Members of the media must respect the right to a fair trial. • It is forbidden to declare a suspect guilty before a final judicial deci- sion. The names or photographs of relatives or other individuals who are not involved in a crime should not be included in news reports. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 45 • If a member of the media has previously reported on an individu- al against whom accusations have been made, an investigation or prosecution is underway, or a lawsuit has been filed, they should also publicise the acquittal of that individual or the dismissal of the charges against them. They should also make reference to all news and previously published articles on the matter. • Under no circumstances should a member of the press disclose the identity of perpetrators or victims under the age of 18. • It is not right to blame individuals for their past. • During the preliminary investigation, reporting that may com- promise the investigation should be avoided. Members of the me- dia should not take sides in the judicial process. • When reporting on the judiciary, crime and criminals should not be praised; criminals should not be heroised or glorified. • Convicted persons should not be treated as guilty after serving their sentences, and their personal rights and human dignity should be safeguarded in media reporting. 46 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Victim News Minor Victims • Members of the media must report with careful consideration of cases that may negatively affect vic- tims, survivors, and their relatives. If the relatives are not informed about the incident, the identities of these individuals must definitely be kept confi- dential. • Victim interviews and photographs should be handled with the before using. • A press report on a sexual crime against a minor must not reveal the minor’s identity. • News coverage of minors should be meticulously handled by me- dia members. In cases of homicide involving children as victims, defendants, or perpetrators, especially in instances of sexual ha- rassment that could provoke significant public outrage, it is es- sential to avoid revealing their identities. • News regarding children’s safety and future must be prepared with caution. • It is prohibited to disclose the identities of children who have been sexually abused and to publish their photographs. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 47 News on Sexual Inviolability Suicide News • News on sexual abuse such as harassment and rape must keep the victim’s identity confidential. • Expressions hinting at the identity of the victim must be avoided. • News should not include details that could harm the victim. • Moderation must be exercised in the reporting of names and events in suicide news, and images of the case must not be pub- lished. • The broadcast time of suicide news should be carefully monitored, and news with this content must not be aired during safe harbour hours. • In presenting news on suicide and suicide attempts, the feelings of relatives and issues related to the individual’s private life must be taken into consideration. • Suicide news should not mention the method of suicide and should report the event with the simplest and most basic informa- tion possible, without providing any details. • Suicide must by no means be glorified or portrayed as a brave act. • Suicide news should not be featured on the front pages of news- papers, in the headlines of websites, or broadcast on television screens as “breaking news.” 48 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • The media organisations should approach the issue similarly on their social media channels. • Suicide must not be portrayed as a means of solving people’s problems; headlines focusing on the notions of suicide and solu- tion must be avoided, and attention must be paid to the journalis- tic language in this context. • Suicide incidents must not be glamorised with stories of mystery or romance, and attention should be paid to the risk of suicide being perceived as a popular form of behaviour. • The portrayal of suicide in a manner that encourages it, so confer- ring status, fame, reputation, honour, face, etc. to the person who commits suicide, must be avoided. • A detailed description of the suicide method must be avoided, and similar suicide methods previously utilised in our country or in the world must not be presented in a way that could lead to imitative or copycat incidents. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 49 Health Status News Prioritization of Public Interest • Publications that involve individuals in hospitals and health care institutions must adhere to confidentiality restrictions. • Physical and mental illnesses and disorders reside are a matter of an individual’s privacy. Members of the media must avoid dis- closing the names and images of the individual and their family, upholding their confidentiality. • Despite the challenges faced by members of the media in their profession, they are obligated to investigate and disseminate news of public interest while ensuring the accuracy of the -infor- mation within the relevant documents. Presentation of the News on the Basis of Public Safety and Public Interest 50 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS State Secret Terror News • When violence erupts, the role of obtaining information from state authorities is crucial. To prevent rumour, speculation, disin- formation, and unnecessary panic, a consistent flow of informa- tion from these sources should be ensured. In such circumstanc- es, the media and the state must work in close collaboration and harmony, with no divergence of interests. • Broadcasting that encourages criminal conduct or undesired be- havior should be avoided. • The demands of terrorists should be communicated through the discourse of members of the press rather than directly by the ter- rorists themselves. • Kidnapping and abduction incidents must not be broadcast live unless strictly required. • Members of the media should refrain from contacting the aggres- sor even if they are privy to where the hostages are being held; and assist public officials and relevant professionals in this en- deavour instead. • Compliance with legal regula- tions on keeping state secrets is required. • Restrictions on the reporting and dissemination of informa- tion must be adhered to. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 51 • Members of the media and security forces should notify each oth- er on authorised names at the onset of an incident to facilitate liaison when necessary. • Any act of terrorism must be reported in a manner that maintains balance and does not overshadow other news of the day. • No news report should praise or encourage terrorism, depict ter- rorist organisations as formidable or justified, or convey the men- acing and intimidating attributes of terrorist organisations. News content must not depict acts of terrorism, their perpetrators, or victims in a manner that serves the objectives of terrorism. • The realities of war must not be concealed, and yet, human digni- ty must be respected. • Striking images depicting war and atrocities should be published solely for justifiable editorial purposes, without undue emphasis. • Acts of terrorism must be reported with accuracy, thoroughness, and a sense of editorial responsibility. • Acts of terrorism should be reported cautiously to avoid inciting public fear and outrage. • Care should be taken to avoid depicting individuals or organisa- tions in a manner that may render them a target for a terrorist at- tack. 52 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • Images of blood, severed limbs, wounds, and corpses must not be presented on the screen. • Sound and visual effects should not be utilised to further aggra- vate the nature of images. • The identities of those who have been injured or murdered should not be disclosed without verification. • Covering crisis situations, such as hostage-taking, piracy, kidnap- pings, and sieges, requires utmost caution to prevent endanger- ing the lives of the victims. Broadcasting should not be conducted in a way that exposes the operation of security forces, and press activities should be conducted with the methods and within the area designated by the security forces. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 53 Crisis-Disaster News • In the event of accidents and disasters, members of the media should prioritise rescue operations for victims and individuals in peril and acknowledge that the importance of human life sur- passes the public’s right to information. The right of the public to receive news does not justify the unlawful activities of members of the media to obtain news material. • The rescue of the injured and victims is prioritised over the pub- lic’s right to information in the event of accidents and disasters. • Sensitivity and common sense should always prevail in the inter- actions with survivors of accidents and disasters. • Members of the media should refrain from harassing those im- pacted by a crisis or disaster and the vulnerabilities or lack of me- dia awareness of individuals should not be abused. • Emotional references to the past and colourful and gruesome de- tails should be avoided. 54 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Economy News • Members of the media should never exploit the economic and fi- nancial information they acquire for their own gain. • The stock market should not be disrupted by members of the me- dia who disseminate news and events for their own gain. • Members of the media should not publish articles or news regard- ing activities that will generate financial gains, nor should they engage in the sale or purchase of stocks that they may have an interest in due to their profession. • News or information that has not been published in accordance with the economic conditions of the state, municipalities, insti- tutions, corporations, or private persons should not be utilised by members of the media for their own or another individual’s benefit. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 55 Presentation of Violence • Violence and brutality should not be transformed into events that elicit excitement or fear in society. • Members of the media should refrain from publishing images and photographs of individuals exposed to shocking or undignifying incidents, as well as going into details of acts of violence and bru- tality unless it is for the public interest. • Members of the media should refrain from publishing articles that would glorify or exalt those who resort to violence in the eyes of society. • Members of the media should not support war, violence, and ag- gression as purported solutions to international issues and should refrain from contributing to any form of intolerance, be it politi- cal, civil, racial, national, or religious. Other states and nations, their democratic traditions, state institutions, cultures, -and mor- al values must also be treated with the uttermost respect. 56 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • Members of the media should refrain from using expressions that incite violence and are harmful to moral values. • Images to be published at the outset of acts of violence should be selected with particular care. • Images of individuals subjected to torture, inhuman and degrad- ing treatment or punishment must definitely not be featured in broadcast . • Moments of death should not be broadcast in a manner that could lead to the exploitation of emotions and set the ground for fear and similar sentiments. • In broadcasting services, violence should not be the centrepiece of the programme and should not be conveyed to the audience through frequent and extended sequences. • Violent images should not be projected on screen during chil- dren’s prime time. • Violent images that may be deemed overwhelming in the news should be displayed using blur and pixelation techniques. • Violent images in broadcasts should not encourage the commis- sion of a crime. Violent incidents should not be described in such detail that they could lead to crimes. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 57 Obscenity Substance-Tobacco Addiction • Broadcasting should not include obscene, vulgar, or humiliating language that could disturb society. • Media members should not present material designed to promote sadism, violence or obscenity. • Broadcasting should not feature sounds or images intended to evoke sexual impulses without a sense of shame. • Media members should care to avoid elements challenging the sense of shame in society or abuse their sexual desires. • In broadcasting, the risk of addiction should be conveyed with an awareness that it pertains to all segments of society and should not be portrayed as a problem peculiar to a certain economic, ed- ucational, or sociocultural group. • The false and temporary feeling of euphoria addiction instills in the individual should not be emphasised. • Attributes normalising tobacco and substance abuse should be avoided. • Addicts should not be denigrated or ostracised. 58 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • Generalisations aimed at specific individuals and institutions should be avoided. • Unnecessary information leading to inappropriate behaviour should not be provided. • Messages on how young people can confront and resist negative attitudes, expectations, and peer pressure should be addressed. • The treatment process should be explained accurately. • Media communications should be carefully developed to avoid conveying encouraging and intriguing implicit messages. • The portrayal of addiction as a part of popular culture should be avoided. • Addictive substances should not be glamourised or portrayed as innocuous. • The market value of addictive substances should not be discussed. • Drug enforcement techniques should not be exposed. • The lifestyles of drug traffickers should not be glamourised. • The sensational and tabloid aspects of news on addiction should be not be mentioned as they downplay the gravity of the problem and prevent a sensitive approach to the issue. • Success stories of people who have recovered from addiction should be featured. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 59 Vulnerable Groups • News reporting by media members should not lead to the abuse of children, the weak, and people with disabilities, or encourage or incite violence. • News reporting by media members should not contribute to gen- der inequality, and broadcasting channels should avoid produc- ing programme content that promotes the oppression and ex- ploitation of women. • Media members should not associate certain jobs with a single gender and should avoid a sexist approach. • Media members should refrain from producing content that ob- jectifies and commodifies the human body. • Women and members of disadvantaged groups should not be portrayed as desperate victims. • Any content that has a potentially adverse effect on the physical, mental or moral development of children and youth should not be broadcast. 60 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Officials Refugees • Tremendous caution should be exercised when releasing the names or hints that could lead to the identification of officials, members of judiciary, or police officers. • News reports should not include the names or images of judges and prosecutors in order not to impair the course of the case or the investigation. • State officials have the right to keep their personal lives private as long as they do not affect their official duties, and they cannot be deprived of their right to privacy solely because of their duties. • Broadcasts should not include details regarding refugees’ identi- ties, escape routes, and methods that could endanger their fami- lies and friends who remain behind. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 61 Discrimination and Incitement • Race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, geography, disability, phys- ical appearance and social status should never be personalised. • In the reporting of crime, the fact that a suspect or offender be- longs to a particular religious, ethnic, or minority group should only be mentioned if it is necessary to understand the events re- ported. • In their reporting, media members should safeguard democrat- ic values, avoid expressions containing violence and hatred, and oppose all forms of discrimination based on culture, gender and religion. • Media members should uphold national and social values. • Media members should uphold the dignity and reputation of indi- viduals who are in the spotlight because of their profession. They should not make insinuations or derogatory remarks about a per- son’s race, nationality, skin colour, religion, social origin, physical disability, or illness. This kind of information should only be re- leased if it is required to better understand the subject matter or directly related to the news content. • Media members should by no means use inappropriate expres- sions that could be harmful to the mental and physical health of individuals. • Media members should refrain from creating content that incites social outrage or ssocial hatred. • Discriminatory and accusatory statements that are unfair to any community that are likely to incite social hatred and mistrust should be avoided. 62 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 63 Health News • In broadcasting medical subjects, caution should be exercised to prevent sensationalism, which may instill unwarranted fear or false hope, and early findings from research should not be pre- sented as “definitive”.” • Information not verified by eminent scientific sources should not be disseminated. • The names of commercial medicines and products shouldn’t be presented in a way that could increase their consumption. • The trade names of pharmaceutical items that have been re- called or withdrawn due to their adverse effects on human health should be disclosed. • Medical professionals should be consulted when recommending medication. It is essential to ensure that the medical professional in question has no vested interest in the pharmaceutical compa- ny they are recommending. • Media members conducting research, gathering information and visuals in hospitals and medical centres must present their identity and receive permission from authorities for entering restricted areas. • Unless public interest or patient rights are at stake, audio and vid- eo should not be captured in hospitals or similar facilities with- out the permission of the authorised person. 64 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Election Campaigns • Broadcasts during the election should be made in accordance with the Supreme Election Council’s decisions. • News coverage on election campaigns should also feature opinions with which the media organisation disagrees in order to ensure fair broadcasting that safeguards the freedom of information for the public and fosters equal opportunities among political parties. • The principle of reporting even those that are contrary to one’s own opinions applies to the publication of advertisements and announcements related to elections to ensure balanced, impar- tial, and free journalism. • Since public opinion polls influence voter preferences during election periods, due diligence should be exercised regarding the reliability of the poll results while reporting them. PRESENTATION OF THE NEWS | 65 Advertisements Publication of Public Opinion Surveys • Advertisements should be present- ed in a manner that prevents them from being misinterpreted as facts and resulting in misunderstandings. • Materials bearing hidden adver- tisements cannot be used. • Advertisements and announce- ments whose content is illegal, inap- propriate, and does not comply with media ethics cannot be released. • The circulation of advertisements that harbour unfair competi- tion and discrimination is unacceptable. • It is advisable to disclose the methodology of the surveys (in- cluding the number of respondents, the date of the polls, and the name of the person who proposed the poll) when reporting on public opinion surveys. • Public opinion surveys should include detailed information re- garding the location, date, sample, and purpose of the survey, as well as the person conducting it. • When publishing the results of surveys conducted via news, web- sites or SMS, it is necessary to specify the method used to obtain these results 66 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS Environmental Protection • Media members should operate and maintain their broadcasting equipment in accordance with the etiquette rules and the circum- stances, ensuring that the individuals in their vicinity are not dis- turbed. • In broadcasting, it is imperative to refrain from engaging in ac- tions that might harm animals, the environment, and nature. • The content of broadcasts should be based on elements that con- tribute to environmental protection within the scope of sustain- able development principles. RIGHT TO CORRECTION AND REPLY | 67 68 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS RIGHT TO CORRECTION AND REPLY | 69 04 Right to Correction and Reply 70 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS RIGHT TO CORRECTION and REPLY 4 • Media members are obliged to fulfil all the liabilities of their po- sition and professional conduct and correct any information that has proven to be inaccurate as soon as possible. • The correction should be implemented in a manner that is readily apparent to the reader or audience. • The correction must be published in the same format and font size and on the same pages and columns as the news article that is the subject of the correction. • In the event that the article is published in multiple spots, the cor- rection and reply should be included in all editions in which the work is published. • A retraction and apology should be issued as soon as it is deter- mined that a material inaccuracy, misleading statement or altered report has been published. Correction 72 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • Periodicals should publish readers’ letters in order to encourage readers to express their own opinions and to contribute to the formation of public opinion. • If readers’ letters possess the necessary structure and content to articulate an opinion in a suitable language and are believed to have the potential to influence public opinion, they should be published. In case of any doubt, the editor is obligated to ask the author’s opinion. • Readers’ letters should be published together with the sender’s name. • The sender’s initials may be published only in exceptional cir- cumstances, as long as they are in accordance with editorial reg- ulations. • The legal constraints applicable to criminal offences also apply to the publication of readers’ letters. • The publication of readers’ letters that contain misleading con- tent is incompatible with the principles of journalism. Editors are also responsible for the design of the column for readers’ letters. Readers’ Letters RIGHT TO CORRECTION AND REPLY | 73 • Freedom of the press includes the right of citizens to be informed on all matters. Even if the editor considers the content of the news and comments to be accurate, he or she should not prevent the exercise of the right to reply, and the decision regarding the issue should be at the reader’s discretion. • Since the person who has passed away does not have the oppor- tunity to exercise the right of correction and reply, contents that contain disparaging remarks about a deceased person should not be published unless they are in the public interest. Right to Reply • The editor is not obligated to publish every letter received on a controversial issue when they make their column available for readers’ letters. However, they should reflect a variety of opinions in a fair and balanced manner. • The editor has the right to interrupt discussions that are unneces- sarily prolonged between the parties. 74 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • Media members are obliged to inform the public if the person who is the subject of the news cannot be found or does not want to respond. • Media members should assist the people who are the subject of the news in presenting their perspectives on the story. Media members should not allow the news content to be distorted from the truth, present events from a single perspective or present only a specific part of the facts. • Media members should carefully determine the timing for exer- cising the right of reply and ensure that all other arrangements, including the timing, are organised in a manner that enables the right of reply to be exercised in the most effective manner. USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA BY JOURNALIST | 75 76 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA BY JOURNALIST | 77 05 Use of Social Media by Journalists 78 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA BY JOURNALISTS 5 • Media members should publish their content in accordance with professional ethics and standards while also being aware that their content is newsworthy. • In order to maintain social harmony, it is imperative that social media users, particularly media members with corporate identi- ties, exercise due diligence when posting. • Media members and social media users are responsible for what they share and post online. Responsibility 80 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • It is best to refrain from using anony- mous accounts that are created to con- ceal one’s identity and exempt oneself from responsibility for their posts. Instead, one should register on social media platforms with a genuine identi- ty that can be legally held accountable and accurately represents the individ- ual’s true identity. • When selecting images, it is crucial to consider the copyright is- sue, choose images that are suitable for the subject, and share im- ages according to the nature of the medium to be used. • The source of the information must be cited in the event of a quotation. • Media members should use their real name in their user profile in order to enhance their credibility. • Usernames that are consistent with other accounts on all social media platforms should be preferred. User Profile Account Copyright USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA BY JOURNALIST | 81 • It is crucial to remember that social media is a perception man- agement tool, and unknown accounts in the virtual environment should be approached with caution. • False names and fake accounts are not to be trusted, and their -visibility should not be amplified. • It’s important to recognise that bot accounts typically aim to fabricate a false narrative, fulfil business objectives, and offer -amusement. • We need to proceed with caution, recognising that there could be profiles in the digital realm that provoke and escalate disputes, disseminate content to alter viewpoints, and disturb -the balance of online interactions. Credibility of Other Accounts 82 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • With the awareness that disinformation on social media increas- es, particularly during times of crisis, and that the virtual envi- ronment is used very effectively for provocation, it is critical to be aware of disinformation in situations such as a terrorist act, natural disaster, or social event. • When disseminating content sourced from others, it is imperative to verify its accuracy and remain vigilant against disinformation campaigns. • It is important to remember that all content on social media is a claim and should be assessed in this context. Unconfirmed in- formation should not be disseminated. It is essential to adhere to statements from authorised individuals, official institutions, and organisations to ensure information accuracy, thereby prevent- ing the propagation of disinformation and lies. • During sensitive periods, it is essential to refrain from dissemi- nating content that may induce fear and anxiety within society while exercising common sense throughout this -process. Use of Social Media in Crises USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA BY JOURNALIST | 83 • In crisis situations, it is of great importance for relevant institu- tions to use their social media accounts effectively and to trust the authorities of the official state institutions and -organisations. • In addition to edited visuals and documents designed to misin- form users on social media, it is essential to exercise caution re- garding rumours, hearsay, voice recordings, and random posts. Information acquired from social media should be verified against sources from official institutions and organisations. • Prior to disseminating a news item, it is essential to evaluate its significance and potential impact, followed by an appropriate re- view process. • In crisis situations, it is imperative to refrain from sharing photo- graphs of individuals affected by an event, including those who have died or been injured. Sensitivity is essential to uphold the rights of these individuals and to prevent social outrage. 84 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • An integrative, respectful language that is devoid of hate speech and insults should be used in social media posts. • The right to privacy, which is the basis of human dignity and one of the most important universal values, should not be violated. • Violent and threatening content should not be shared or expressed. • Actions such as revelation, harassing, and cyberbullying must be avoided. • In order for differences to be perceived as richness on social me- dia, it is necessary to take individual measures and establish an environment of social peace and understanding. • Utilising, disseminating, or enabling discriminating, harassing, distressing, racist, ethnic, religious, or physically offensive and insulting words constitutes a criminal offence. Language and Discourse USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA BY JOURNALIST | 85 • On social media, as in real life, individuals who initially dissem- inate and propagate content that includes insults, defamation, blasphemy, infringes upon personal privacy, seeks to incite social disorder, and glorifies crime and criminals are -subject to legal accountability. • One should exercise caution prior to liking content on social me- dia and sharing it with followers. Sharing content that involves a crime can lead to legal consequences. • The freedoms of other users must not be infringed upon, and hos- tile posts should be avoided. • Other users’ personalities, as well as their reasonable viewpoints and expressions must be respected. • Content that goes against social values should not be disseminat- ed, and posting such materials should be avoided. REFERENCES • Press Law No. 5187 • The Law No. 6112 on the Establishment of Radio and Television Enterprises and Their Media Services • American Press Association • US Radio-Television News Directors Association Code of Ethics • German Press Code • American Society of News Editors • Associated Press Managing Editors Association • Asian Press Organization Moral Developments Report (1970) • Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Ethical Principles for Journalism • European Convention on Transfrontier Television • Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance of Australia (MEAA) Journalist Code of Ethics (Revised) • Code of Ethics for the Austrian Press Code of Practice (Flanders) • Code of Professional Ethics for Journalists Belarus REFERENCES | 87 • Press and Online Media Code of Bosnia and Herzegovina • Code of Ethics of the Bulgarian Media • Code of Conduct for Denmark • Finland – Guidelines for Good Journalistic Practice • National Union of French Journalists Charter • International Declaration of the Rights and Obligations of Journalists • Honour Codex of Croatian Journalists • Code of Ethics of the All-India Newspaper Editors’ Conference (1968) • Norms of Journalistic Conduct of India • Netherlands Declaration of Principles on the Conduct of Journalists • Code of Ethics of Hong Kong Journalists Association • UK Broadcasting Standards Commission Broadcast Standards • Broadcasting Complaints Commission (UK) Code of Practice • UK Code of Conduct • Irish Code of Conduct • Deontological Code for the Journalistic Profession in Spain • Code of Ethics for Press, Radio and Television in Sweden • Declaration of Duties and Rights of Journalists - Switzerland • Charter of Duties of Journalists of Italy • Icelandic Press Council Rules of Ethics in Journalism • The Radio Television Digital News Association of Canada (RTDNA) • Code of Ethics Declaration of Principles of Professional Journalists in Catalonia Association of Catalan Journalists 88 | ACCURATE REPORTING AND MEDIA ETHICS • Code of Ethics of Lithuanian Journalists • Code of Ethics the Press Club of Malta and the Institute of Broadcasters (1991) • Moldovan Journalist’s Code of Ethics • Code of Ethics of the Norwegian Press • Code of Ethics the Association of Journalists of the Republic of Poland (1991) • Deontology of the Portuguese Journalists • Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) Guide on Broadcasting Principles - 2014 • Code of Professional Ethics of Russian Journalist (1994) • The Code of Ethics of the Slovak Syndicate of Journalists • Code of Journalists of the Republic of Slovenia • Sri Lanka Press Council Code of Ethics for Journalists (1981) • Twitter Statement of the Presidency’s Head of Communications of the Republic of Türkiye, Prof. Fahrettin ALTUN, dated November 5, 2019 • Presidency’s Directorate of Communications’ “Guide on the Use of Social Media” • “Strategic Communication Document on Combating Addiction- Drugs, Tobacco, Technology” of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye • Turkish Press Council Professional Principles Of The Press • Turkish Journalists’ Declaration of Rights and Responsibilities • Greece – Principles of Deontology