Editorial Standards

Report Focus News maintains the highest editorial standards to ensure accurate, fair, and ethical journalism that serves the public interest in South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Accuracy and Verification

Fact-Checking Process

• All facts are verified through at least two independent sources
• Primary sources are prioritized over secondary reporting
• Claims by public figures are fact-checked against official records
• Statistical data is verified through original sources
• Expert opinions are sought from qualified professionals

Source Verification

• Sources are vetted for credibility and expertise
• Anonymous sources must be approved by senior editors
• Information from social media requires independent verification
• Government and institutional claims are cross-referenced

Editorial Independence

Editorial Decision Making

• Editorial decisions are made independently of commercial considerations
• News coverage is not influenced by advertisers or sponsors
• Political independence is maintained across all coverage
• Editorial content is clearly separated from advertising

Conflict of Interest

• Staff disclose potential conflicts of interest to editors
• Financial interests in covered companies are disclosed
• Personal relationships with news subjects are reported
• Gifts and hospitality are declined or disclosed

Fairness and Balance

Balanced Reporting

• Multiple perspectives are presented on controversial issues
• Opposing viewpoints are given fair representation
• Context is provided to help readers understand complex issues
• Minority opinions are included when relevant

Right of Reply

• Subjects of critical coverage are offered opportunity to respond
• Responses are published promptly and prominently
• Reasonable time is allowed for responses to serious allegations
• Clarifications are published when misunderstandings occur

Language and Style

Writing Standards

• Clear, concise language accessible to general readers
• Technical terms explained when necessary
• Active voice preferred over passive construction
• Jargon and acronyms defined on first use

Cultural Sensitivity

• Respectful terminology for all cultural and ethnic groups
• Awareness of regional sensitivities and context
• Inclusive language that serves diverse audiences
• Careful consideration of historical and social context

Legal and Ethical Compliance

Legal Standards

• Compliance with South African and Zimbabwean media laws
• Respect for court orders and reporting restrictions
• Protection of minors' identities in criminal cases
• Adherence to privacy and defamation laws

Ethical Guidelines

• Respect for human dignity in all reporting
• Sensitivity in reporting on trauma and tragedy
• Protection of vulnerable sources and subjects
• Responsible use of graphic images and content

Digital Media Standards

Online Content

• Same editorial standards apply to digital and traditional media
• Headlines accurately reflect article content
• Social media posts maintain journalistic integrity
• User-generated content is moderated for accuracy

Multimedia Content

• Photos and videos are accurately captioned
• Image manipulation is disclosed when used
• Audio and video content maintains editorial standards
• Copyright and permissions are respected

Corrections and Accountability

Error Correction

• Errors are corrected promptly and transparently
• Corrections are published prominently
• Original errors are not removed but marked as corrected
• Significant errors trigger internal review process

Public Accountability

• Readers can contact editors about editorial concerns
• Complaints are investigated and addressed
• Editorial decisions are explained when requested
• Regular review of editorial practices and standards

Staff Training and Development

• Regular training on journalistic ethics and standards
• Updates on legal requirements and best practices
• Cultural sensitivity and diversity training
• Digital journalism and fact-checking skills development

Reader Engagement

• Reader feedback is welcomed and considered
• Comments are moderated for constructive dialogue
• Community concerns are reflected in news coverage
• Transparency about editorial processes and decisions

Contact Our Editorial Team

Questions about our editorial standards or specific coverage decisions can be directed to: