Radio Television Digital News Association of Canada’s Code of Journalistic Ethics (2016)

PREAMBLE

An informed public is vital to a democratic society. Canadian journalism’s purpose is to serve the public interest. It is our responsibility to act independently, to be fair and respectful, and to report the facts.

This Code of Ethics is based on more than a century of journalistic experience and represents our membership’s guiding principles.
We welcome its adoption by all practicing journalists.

1.0 ACCURACY

We are committed to journalism in the public interest that is accurate and reliable. Journalists will strive to verify facts and put them in context.

2.0 FAIRNESS

We are committed to impartial, unbiased journalism that serves the public interest through the free and open exchange of ideas, and respects the diversity of society.

3.0 INDEPENDENCE

Journalism’s first obligation is to act in the public interest. We will resist any attempts at censorship or interference, direct or indirect, which would undermine the principle of editorial independence.

4.0 INTEGRITY

We will govern ourselves on and off the job in a manner that avoids conflict of interest, real or perceived. When conflicts are unavoidable, they should be disclosed.

5.0 RESPECT

Our conduct will be respectful, always taking into account editorial relevance and the public interest.