Accuracy, Fairness, and Balance
Our publications are committed to upholding accuracy, fairness, and balance. We strive to provide truthful and unbiased information, avoiding deliberate attempts to mislead or misinform our readers. In cases of controversy or disagreement, we ensure that opposing viewpoints are given a fair voice. While exceptions may arise for long-running issues, where every aspect cannot be reiterated on every occasion, we maintain overall balance across multiple stories rather than a single report.
Privacy
We respect everyone’s entitlement to privacy, including personal information and physical space. However, the right to privacy should not hinder the publication of significant matters of public record or interest. We exercise caution and discretion when referencing the relatives of individuals convicted or accused of a crime, ensuring their relevance to the reported matter. We recognize the need for special consideration for those experiencing trauma or grief. See more details here
Children and Young People
In cases involving children and young people, we demonstrate an exceptional degree of public interest before overriding their interests.
Comment and Fact
We clearly differentiate between factual information and comment or opinion. Articles primarily expressing opinion are distinctly presented as such, while maintaining accuracy in the supporting material facts.
Columns, Blogs, Opinion, and Letters
Opinions expressed in columns, internet blogs, or other platforms are identified as such, unless widely understood to consist mainly of the writer’s own opinions. While factual grounding is necessary, balance is not essential in comment and opinion pieces. Cartoons are regarded as expressions of opinion. Editors have the prerogative to publish letters guided by fairness, balance, and public interest. Abridgement is acceptable as long as the meaning is not distorted.
Headlines and Captions
Headlines, sub-headings, and captions accurately and fairly convey the substance or a key element of the report they accompany.
Discrimination and Diversity
Gender, religion, minority groups, sexual orientation, age, race, color, or physical or mental disability can be subjects of discussion when relevant and in the public interest. Opinions and reports in these areas are permissible. However, publications should refrain from gratuitously emphasizing any particular category in their reporting.
Confidentiality
We maintain a strong obligation to protect the identity of confidential sources. We take reasonable steps to ensure these sources are well-informed and reliable. Agreement between the source and the publication regarding the terms of “off-the-record” should be established.
Subterfuge
Information obtained through subterfuge, misrepresentation, or dishonest means is prohibited, except in cases of overriding public interest where no alternative means of obtaining the news or information exists.
Conflicts of Interest
To maintain independence, publications must be free of obligations to news sources. We avoid situations that compromise our independence. If a story is enabled by sponsorship, gifts, or financial inducement, it is declared accordingly. Justified author-subject relationships are transparently disclosed.
Images, Photographs and Graphics
Editors exercise care in the selection and treatment of photographs and images. Any technical manipulation that could mislead readers is noted and explained. Photographs depicting distressing or shocking situations are handled with special consideration for those affected.
Depending on what fits the article best, we might use pictures made by users, stock images, or images created by artificial intelligence.
Corrections
We value credibility and address errors promptly. Significant errors are corrected with fair prominence, and in some cases, an apology and a right of reply are offered to affected individuals.
Lodge a Formal Complaint
If you believe NZLankaNews has violated our formal standards, we encourage you to submit a formal complaint. We aim to address and resolve complaints promptly.
A formal complaint should include:
- The item or program’s name, specifying its time and date.
- More details, including a link if the item is online, to help us locate it.
- Identification of the breached standards or principles.
- A clear explanation of why you believe the standards or principles were breached.
Online Content:
For online content, complaints must be lodged within one calendar month of the item’s publication. If you are dissatisfied with our response, you have the option to escalate it to the Media Council.
Submit Your Complaint:
Complaints must be in writing and can be submitted through the complaint form provided below. Your feedback is important to us, and we appreciate your efforts to ensure accountability.
Submit a Complaint to our email info@nzlankanews.com or use the contact form here.