Ethical Journalism Newsletter: January 27, 2015

Ethical Journalism News And Debates

Director’s Letter: January 2015

The Paris events have already triggered debates in media circles over free speech, self-censorship and ethical responsibility in journalism. The EJN is at the centre of this discussion and we are already contributing to major debates in Europe and beyond. We are urging that journalists and media make themselves aware of the dangers to editorial independence posed by some of the profoundly political and ideological hard-line positions being taken after the attacks.

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[VIDEO] Press Club Brussels With EJN Director On Hate Speech

As the 20-year anniversary of the horrors of genocide in Rwanda was marked in 2014 and with the recent Charlie Hebdo killings in Paris sparked by religious intolerance, the Ethical Journalism Network has launched a five-point test to help journalists and editors to identify speech that aims to generate intense hatred or incite violence. Ethical Journalism Network Director Aidan White spoke at the Press Club Brussels to launch his organization’s latest initiative. (via EUReporterFeatured)

Living Values: Criticism Of Religious Groups And Press Freedom

A small group of writers to this office claims that The Hindu has been partial in its criticism of the excesses of religious groups, and that it focuses only on the fringe elements of Hinduism. Their contention is that the newspaper tends to overlook the illiberal tendencies of other religions. Is this criticism valid? Is there any preference for one religion? Does the newspaper adhere to its commitment to a liberal, plural worldview? (via The Hindu)

Malachy Browne’s Tips On Verification In 12 Tweets

A few tweets by Malachy Browne, Managing Editor and Europe Anchor of Reported.ly, about the process of verifying details of the air strike on Ghouta. (via The Online Journalism Blog)

Journalism Is Not A Crime. So Why Are Reporters Being Referred To Police?

Journalists who have reported on immigration and asylum seeker issues have been referred to the Australian Federal Police for investigation in a series of attempts to prosecute confidential sources and whistleblowers. (via The Guardian)

Resources

[INFOGRAPHIC] Hate Speech: A 5 Point Test For Journalists

Turning the Page of Hate Media Campaign for Tolerance In Journalism

How can journalists determine what is hate speech? In a world plagued by censorship, press freedom violations and propaganda it is difficult for reporters to judge what type of rhetoric is acceptable and what is intolerable. Currently there is no accepted international definition of hate speech and the levels of tolerance vary dramatically from country to country.

This infographic helps journalists navigate through the minefield of potential hate speech and take into consideration the wider context in which people express themselves. They must focus not just on what is said, but what is intended. It’s not just a matter of law or socially acceptable behaviour; it’s a question of whether speech aims to do others harm, particularly at moments when there is the threat of immediate violence.

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