1. Accuracy and Fact-Checking

• Prioritize truth and accuracy in all reporting. Verify information through credible sources before publication.
• Correct errors promptly and transparently, with clear corrections appended to the original content.
• Distinguish clearly between fact, opinion, and speculation. Label opinion pieces appropriately.

2. Fairness and Impartiality

• Report without bias, ensuring all sides of a story are represented fairly.
• Avoid conflicts of interest (personal, financial, or political) that could compromise journalistic independence.
• Disclose any potential conflicts transparently to audiences when relevant.

3. Accountability to the Public

• Serve the public interest by reporting on issues that matter to communities.
• Protect whistleblowers and sources who risk their safety to share information in the public interest, while adhering to legal boundaries.
• Acknowledge and address audience feedback constructively.

4. Transparency in Sourcing

• Attribute information to its original source. Avoid anonymous sourcing unless absolutely necessary for protection.
• Disclose when sources request anonymity and explain why anonymity was granted.
• Never plagiarize or manipulate content. Credit original creators and respect copyright laws.

5. Respect for Privacy and Dignity

• Balance the public’s right to know with an individual’s right to privacy. Avoid sensationalizing personal tragedies.
• Exercise caution when reporting on vulnerable groups (e.g., minors, victims of violence, marginalized communities).
• Seek consent before identifying individuals in sensitive situations, unless overriding public interest justifies disclosure.

6. Avoid Harm

• Refrain from publishing content that could incite violence, discrimination, or hatred.
• Avoid graphic depictions of violence or trauma unless essential to the story, with appropriate warnings.
• Do not amplify harmful misinformation, conspiracy theories, or unverified claims.

7. Combat Misinformation

• Debunk false claims swiftly and prominently using fact-checking methodologies.
• Label satirical or AI-generated content clearly to avoid confusion.
• Monitor user-generated content (comments, forums) to prevent the spread of falsehoods.

8. Diversity and Inclusion

• Ensure equitable representation of voices across gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Challenge stereotypes and avoid language that perpetuates prejudice.
• Seek out underrepresented perspectives in storytelling.

9. Ethical Use of Technology

• Disclose the use of AI tools (e.g., generative AI for content creation or editing).
• Protect user data and adhere to privacy laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).
• Avoid intrusive tracking or deceptive digital practices.

10. Social Media Responsibility

• Hold journalists and contributors to the same ethical standards on social media as in formal reporting.
• Avoid sharing unverified claims, even in personal accounts, if they could harm the outlet’s credibility.
• Engage respectfully with audiences online; do not harass or demean critics.

11. Independence from Influence

• Refuse gifts, favors, or special treatment that could influence coverage.
• Clearly distinguish sponsored content or advertisements from editorial content.
• Disclose funding sources, ownership, and partnerships that could impact editorial decisions.

12. Enforcement and Commitment

• Train all staff and contributors regularly on this Code of Ethics.
• Conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance.
• Establish a confidential channel for internal or external ethical concerns (e.g., an ombudsperson or ethics committee).

“We, the team at Xpress99.com , commit to upholding these principles in pursuit of truthful, ethical, and impactful journalism. We hold ourselves accountable to our audience and the public trust.”