Journalism Integrity and Truthfulness Act
Section 1: Purpose
The purpose of this law is to ensure that journalism is based on factual, accurate, and verifiable information, fostering public trust and accountability in media reporting.
Section 2: Definition of Journalism
For the purposes of this law, “journalism” refers to the practice of gathering, assessing and presenting news and information to the public via various media platforms, including print, digital, broadcast, and online outlets.
Section 3: Standard of Accuracy
1. All journalistic reporting must prioritize factual accuracy. Journalists and media organizations are required to verify the facts of any story before publication, broadcasting, or dissemination.
2. In cases where the information presented may be in dispute, the journalist must clearly disclose the sources of the information, outline the context, and specify any uncertainty or limitation regarding the facts.
Section 4: Duty of Correction
1. If a published or broadcasted news story contains a factual error, the media organization or journalist responsible for the content must issue a prompt and clear correction.
2. Corrections must be made with equal prominence to the original error, ensuring transparency and accountability to the public.
Section 5: Prohibition of Misinformation and Disinformation
1. Deliberate misinformation or disinformation—defined as the intentional spread of false or misleading information—is strictly prohibited.
2. Journalists and media outlets found to be consistently publishing or broadcasting misinformation or disinformation may face penalties including fines or suspension of broadcast licenses, and in extreme cases, loss of journalistic accreditation.
Section 6: Transparency and Accountability
1. Journalists must disclose any potential conflicts of interest when reporting on topics that could influence their objectivity or impartiality.
2. Media organizations must adhere to editorial guidelines that promote transparency, accuracy, and fairness in their reporting practices.
Section 7: Oversight and Enforcement
1. An independent regulatory body shall be established to oversee compliance with this law, investigate complaints, and enforce penalties for violations.
2. This body shall consist of a diverse panel of journalism professionals, legal experts, and public representatives to ensure fairness and impartiality.
Section 8: Exemptions and Exceptions
1. The law recognizes the role of opinion, analysis, and editorial content, provided that these are clearly distinguished from factual reporting and are based on reasoned argument and transparency.
2. Emergency reporting in crisis situations may allow for temporary exceptions, but all efforts must be made to correct any inaccuracies once verified information is available.
Section 9: Public Education
1. The government, in partnership with educational institutions, will promote public literacy in media and critical thinking to empower citizens to discern between factual news and misleading content.
Section 10: Implementation and Review
A review of its implementation will occur every two years, with recommendations for adjustments based on public and professional feedback.