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Impartiality is not the same as balance. In normal reporting we would expect both sides of a story to be represented, or a ‘right ‘right of reply’ reply’ to be given. However, if a story is incontrovertibly true, then balance is not necessarily required. For example, the mounting scientific proof that the planet is warming and that the incidence of unnatural events such as extreme heat and devastating floods is growing exponentially, tells us that climate change is real. As such, a story about climate change does not technically require being balanced with an opposing view.
We do not tolerate so called conspiracy theories, which, by their nature, lack evidential proof, nor do we accept any medical or scientific theories or conspiracies that do not have a foundation in scientific fact. You can report on them, but you must do so in a way that does not subscribe to, endorse, support or advocate for them.
Impartiality does not mean a contributor must adopt a submissive tone when interviewing a subject. Indeed, tough questions and holding the powerful to account is expected of all journalists. In such circumstances, the journalist is there on behalf of the audience and must ask the necessary and appropriate questions.
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As stated in the introduction above, we do not permit harmful, offensive or obscene content. We do not tolerate racism or hate speech of any kind, neither do we allow extremely violent content, or content that includes threats of violence or incitement to commit acts of violence towards any group or individual.
Having said that, we recognize that the publication of ‘challenging’ content, which passes the public interest test and has editorial purpose, and which seeks only to prompt legitimate and fair public debate, is permissible. The admins of this site Our moderators will determine whether content meets this narrow interpretation; the public interest bar will be set extremely high.
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Obscene material and the use of sexual swear words are forbidden. As is extreme violence. Also depictions of self-harm and suicide.
Extreme care must be taken when talking about mental health in general and medical conditions linked to mental health and depression.
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There is NO justification for the depiction or discussion of sex involving minors. Such references and depictions are strictly prohibited and illegal. Any infringement or attempted infringement of this prohibition will be reported immediately to the required law enforcement authorities and result in a permanent ban for the user and potential prosecution. For more information see our policy on Exploitation.
Religion
Great sensitivity is required when reporting Religion and Faith. Recent census reports - eg in the UK- report a distinct drop in the numbers of people identifying as a person of faith, especially within the Christian churchChristianity. Nevertheless, many people continue to hold strong religious views, which must be respected.
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We should never set out to mislead or deceive those included in submitted content, unless there is a clear editorial reason for doing so - e.g., exposing wrongdoing. Even here, the editorial and public interest test will be set extremely high. Site admins Our moderators reserve the right to remove content that does not meet this exacting standard.
Under normal circumstances, our dealings with sources and contributors will be open and honest. We will clearly state our editorial purpose and intent when filming or requesting an interview. This is called fair dealing.
Where possible, we should obtain consent from people we feature. This does not include people we film in public places. Filming is permissible in public places, and although the law changes in some jurisdictions, we should challenge anyone who tries to prevent legitimate journalism and storytelling from taking place.
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The legal expectation of privacy differs from country to country. However, the code of conduct of our website and App privacy is an integral component of our community standards, which determines that we respect individual privacy.
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There is limited expectation of privacy in a public space. However, however, repeated attempts to film and interview an unwilling individual can be construed as harassment and should be avoided.
Secret filming is illegal in many countries and should be avoided. However, within the legal confines of the individual jurisdiction, secret recording can be acceptable in a very small number of cases. Firstly, there must be clear prime facie evidence of illegality and wrongdoing on the part of the subject. There should be a self-evident public interest case for exposure. Secondly, every attempt to record the subject openly must have been made. Thirdly, the subject must be given at least two written requests for interview. If all these attempts fail, and the public interest test still applies, the secret filming can take place.
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All contributors are responsible for their own safety and security. Never put yourself at risk for the sake of a story. |
Reporting distressing scenes
The gratuitous depiction of violent scenes, or graphic portrayal of those seriously injured or killed by acts of hate, war, terrorism, natural disasters, or accidents, are not permitted.
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Please remember that any individual or business can take legal action against you and us if they feel their reputation is damaged or that their business has suffered as a result of the content we published.
The first defence defense against such a charge is TRUTH - ie the content was true. However, even if you know something to be true, it may be difficult to prove in court.
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