Separating fact from fiction has long been the journalist’s job. But in environments where multiple stakeholders are complicit in sourcing or profiting from mis- and dis-information campaigns, where can journalists turn to mindfully, ethically, and systematically navigate blatant attempts to circumvent the truth?
Strong journalistic standards and systems can help to chart the course for combatting mis- and disinformation while rebuilding trust in the news media.
The National Press Club Journalism Institute produced a virtual discussion with standards editors at national news outlets where they raised the curtain on the important discussions that guide their outlets’ coverage. From rigorously fact-checking reporting to framing global conflicts to language choices and beyond, they offered best practices and considerations journalists should make while serving the public.
Panelists include:
- Amanda Barrett, vice president of news, standards and inclusion for The Associated Press
- Anita Kumar, senior managing editor, North America, and standards editor for POLITICO
- Natalia Mironova, editor of news standards and best practices for Voice of America
- Eileen O’Reilly, managing editor for standards and training for Axios and NPCJI board member
- David Peterkin, vice president of news practices for ABC News
- Moderator: Ed Kelley, dean emeritus at Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication and NPCJI board member
This program was part of the National Press Club Journalism Institute’s four-part webinar series focused on ethics in the age of disinformation. The series, produced in part with funding from the Inasmuch Foundation, is designed to provide tools and best practices to support ethical, trustworthy journalism. If you have questions about this program, please email National Press Club Journalism Institute Executive Director Beth Francesco at [email protected].
Additional resources
- News values and principles (Associated Press)
- AP Definitive Source: Standards around generative AI (Associated Press)
- The Associated Press Social Media Guidelines
- AP Stylebook
- Poynter
- SPJ Code of Ethics (Society of Professional Journalists)
About NPCJI
The National Press Club Journalism Institute promotes an engaged global citizenry through an independent and free press, and equips journalists with skills and standards to inform the public in ways that inspire a more representative democracy. As the nonprofit affiliate of the National Press Club, the Institute powers journalism in the public interest.