Code of Ethics & Editorial Standard

Maldives Online News Platform (Dhivehi & English) – www.thepress.mv

1. Introduction

The Code of Ethics of ThePress.mv establishes the editorial values and professional standards that guide the work of all journalists, editors, and staff. The purpose of this code is to ensure that we maintain the highest levels of accuracy, impartiality, fairness, and respect for local customs and the Constitution in our news coverage. It is designed to align with the Maldives Media Council Code of Ethics and to reflect the values of responsible journalism in the Maldives.

2. Core Ethical Principles

A. Truth and Accuracy

• We are committed to ensuring the accuracy of all content published by ThePress.mv. All facts will be verified, and multiple sources will be consulted where possible to prevent the dissemination of misleading information.
• We will not publish rumors or unverified claims and will always seek clarification or confirmation from credible sources before publication.

B. Fairness and Balance

• We will provide balanced and impartial coverage on all issues. All relevant perspectives, particularly in controversial or public interest stories, will be included.
• We will ensure that individuals or organizations being reported about are given the opportunity to respond to allegations before publication.

C. Independence

• Editorial content must be free from external influence, including political, commercial, or personal interests.
• We will maintain editorial independence and will not allow advertisers, sponsors, or political entities to dictate the content or direction of our reporting.

D. Accountability

• We take responsibility for the accuracy and fairness of our content. When mistakes are made, they will be corrected promptly and transparently.
• Corrections will be made in a manner that is clear and visible to the audience to maintain public trust.

3. Respect for Local Culture and Religion

• We will respect the religious and cultural sensitivities of the Maldivian society. Content will be sensitive to Islamic values and the norms of the Maldives, avoiding material that may cause unnecessary offense.
• We will not publish content that incites violence, hatred, or discrimination based on religion, ethnicity, or gender.

4. Editorial Guidelines

1. Reporting

• All news articles will be based on facts, and the sources of information will be disclosed whenever possible.
• We will avoid sensationalism and provide context in reporting, especially on sensitive issues. News content should inform, educate, and contribute to public discourse.
• Headlines and visuals will be crafted carefully to avoid distortion of the facts or misrepresentation of the content.

2. Editorial Opinion

• Editorials and opinion columns will be clearly distinguished from news content.
• The opinions expressed will reflect a diverse range of viewpoints, but must remain free from personal bias and be based on verifiable facts.
• Editorial content will not advocate for particular political or business interests.

3. Visual Content

• All visual content, including photographs and videos, must accurately represent the subject matter.
• We will avoid manipulating images in a way that distorts the truth or misleads the audience.
• The privacy of individuals, particularly minors and vulnerable groups, will be respected, and we will not publish images without consent unless there is a strong public interest.

4. Sensitive Content

1. Children and Vulnerable Groups

• The identities of children and vulnerable individuals involved in news stories, particularly in sensitive cases (e.g., abuse or criminal activity), will be protected.
• Consent will be obtained before publishing personal details or images of minors.

2. Reporting on Trauma or Tragedy

• We will approach sensitive and traumatic stories with respect and sensitivity, especially when dealing with victims of violence, accidents, or natural disasters.
• Stories involving distressing content will be handled with care, ensuring that the dignity of those affected is maintained.

3. Defamation and Privacy

• ThePress.mv will not engage in defamation or publish content that unjustly harms an individual’s reputation.
• We will respect privacy rights and refrain from reporting personal information that is not in the public interest, particularly if it involves minors or individuals in vulnerable situations.

5. Transparency and Accountability

1. Corrections and Retractions

• When an error or inaccuracy is identified, we will issue a correction promptly, in the same space the original content was published, to ensure transparency and maintain the trust of our audience.
• Corrections will be made in a clear and visible manner, and any necessary retractions will be issued when required.

2. Public Complaints

• We will provide a transparent mechanism for the public to submit complaints about content they believe violates ethical standards. These complaints will be reviewed and addressed by the editorial team.
• If a content breach is confirmed, ThePress.mv will take appropriate corrective action.

6. Conflict of Interest

• Journalists, editors, and staff are prohibited from engaging in activities or relationships that could create a conflict of interest with their editorial responsibilities.
• Any financial or personal interests that may influence editorial decisions must be disclosed to the editorial board, and steps will be taken to avoid such conflicts.

7. Social Media and Digital Conduct

1. Social Media Use

• Journalists and staff are expected to apply the same ethical standards on social media platforms as they do in traditional journalism. Personal opinions and political views should not compromise the objectivity or credibility of ThePress.mv.
• Content shared on social media must be verified and truthful, and journalists should not post or share misleading information that could damage ThePress.mv's reputation.

8. Training and Professional Development

• All staff, including journalists, editors, and contributors, will receive regular training on ethical journalism practices, media law, and the application of this Code of Ethics.
• The editorial board will oversee the enforcement of this Code and will periodically review and update the guidelines to remain aligned with emerging ethical standards and legal requirements.

9. Enforcement and Disciplinary Action

• Any violation of this Code of Ethics will be taken seriously and addressed by the editorial board.
• Depending on the severity of the breach, disciplinary actions may include a formal warning, suspension, or termination.
• The editorial team will investigate any ethical lapses and take appropriate action to uphold the integrity of ThePress.mv.

Effective Date: May 3rd, 2018
Approved By: Editorial Board of ThePress.mv