Editorial Policy

ISN Media is committed to the highest standards of journalism. Our editorial policy outlines the principles and practices that guide our newsroom and ensure the integrity of our reporting. We believe that a free and responsible press is essential to a well-informed public.

Independence

ISN Media operates with full editorial independence. Our reporting is not influenced by advertisers, sponsors, political parties, governments, or any other external entities. Editorial decisions are made solely by our newsroom based on newsworthiness, public interest, and journalistic merit.

We maintain a strict separation between our editorial and business operations. No advertiser or commercial partner has any influence over the content we produce or the editorial decisions we make.

Accuracy and Verification

Accuracy is the foundation of our journalism. We are committed to reporting the truth and ensuring that all information we publish is thoroughly verified before publication.

• •All facts, claims, and statistics are verified through multiple sources before publication
• •We do not publish unverified claims or rumors as fact
• •When information cannot be independently verified, we clearly state this to our readers
• •Headlines accurately reflect the content of our articles and are not misleading
• •We clearly distinguish between confirmed facts and developing information in breaking news situations

Sourcing Standards

We hold ourselves to rigorous sourcing standards to ensure the reliability of our reporting.

• •We prefer on-the-record, named sources whenever possible
• •Anonymous sources are used only when there is a compelling reason and the information is of significant public interest
• •When anonymous sources are used, we explain why the source was granted anonymity
• •We protect the identity of confidential sources and do not reveal them without their explicit consent
• •We attribute information to its source clearly and transparently

Separation of News and Opinion

We maintain a clear distinction between news reporting and opinion content.

• •News articles are based on factual reporting and do not include the personal opinions of the reporter
• •Opinion and analysis pieces are clearly labeled as "Opinion" or "Analysis"
• •Editorials represent the institutional view of ISN Media and are clearly identified
• •Guest opinions and columns reflect the views of the author and are not necessarily endorsed by ISN Media

Fairness and Balance

We strive to present all sides of a story fairly and give relevant parties a reasonable opportunity to respond.

• •We seek comment from all relevant parties in a story, especially those who are subject to criticism or allegations
• •We present diverse perspectives and viewpoints, especially on contentious issues
• •We do not suppress relevant information that may contradict our reporting angle
• •We treat all subjects of our reporting with respect and fairness, regardless of their status or position

Corrections and Accountability

We hold ourselves accountable for the accuracy of our reporting. When errors occur, we correct them promptly and transparently.

• •Errors of fact are corrected as soon as they are identified
• •Corrections are clearly noted within the article, with a description of what was changed
• •Significant corrections are published prominently
• •We welcome reader feedback and take all reports of errors seriously

For more details on how we handle corrections, please see our Corrections Policy.

Conflicts of Interest

Our journalists and editors are expected to avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise or appear to compromise the integrity of our reporting.

• •Staff members must disclose any potential conflicts of interest to their editors
• •Journalists do not report on topics in which they have a personal or financial interest
• •We do not accept gifts, favors, or special treatment from sources or subjects of our reporting
• •Any unavoidable conflicts of interest are disclosed to readers

Dignity and Sensitivity

We are committed to reporting with sensitivity and respect for the dignity of all individuals.

• •We exercise caution when reporting on vulnerable individuals, including victims of crime, children, and those experiencing trauma
• •We avoid gratuitous use of graphic images or descriptions
• •We do not identify victims of sexual assault or abuse without their explicit consent
• •We are mindful of cultural, religious, and social sensitivities in our reporting
• •Content warnings are provided when articles contain potentially distressing material

Public Interest

We serve the public interest through our journalism. The public interest is our guiding principle when making editorial decisions.

• •We prioritize stories that inform the public about matters affecting their lives, communities, and governance
• •We hold those in power accountable through investigative and watchdog journalism
• •We amplify voices that are often underrepresented or marginalized in public discourse
• •We weigh the public's right to know against potential harm when making publishing decisions