Excerpted from Handbook for Afghan Journalists, 2004
Ten international standards As an independent journalist, you must think of yourself as a servant of ordinary citizens – not of the government. This is the idea behind international standards of journalism. We use these 10 international standards in training and as mandatory elements in the stories we publish. Below is an outline of the 10 standards; they are explained in more detail in the sections on planning, reporting and writing stories. Each is followed by a question you should ask yourself with every story to ensure you are serving the needs of your audience. You should picture an ordinary person – say, a farmer who’s lived in a village all his life, or a shopkeeper in Kabul – and imagine them listening to or reading your story. 1. Interest. If the story isn’t interesting, no one will read it and citizens will not be informed. Will the reader care about the story? 2. Timeliness. Citizens need to get information in a timely manner so that they can be fully informed and, possibly, respond. Will the reader learn about something new? 3. Accuracy. Effort must be made to verify information and ensure the story is based on facts from reliable sources. Will the reader believe the story? 4. Fairness. All sides of the story must be treated fairly, and your opinion is not part of the story, so that citizens get what they need to understand and make good decisions. Will the reader trust the story? 5. Detail. General statements should be supported with facts and description, so that the events and issues are clear. Will the reader see the events, people and places clearly?
Lisa Schnellinger
6. Background. Information that provides context to a news event or feature - such as historical or cultural factors – is essential for understanding the event or issue. Will the reader understand the significance of the story? 7. Lead. The first paragraph or two should catch the reader’s attention, give them basic information, and draw them into the story. Will the reader know what the story is about and want to read the rest? 8. Structure. The story should follow a logical sequence so that the story makes sense, and can be cut to fit the available space. Will the reader be able to follow the story easily from beginning to end? 9. Quotes. The voices of ordinary people as well as officials should be included and accurately reflect what they said. Will the reader “hear” the voices of people? 10. Clarity. Stories should be written in words that ordinary people understand. Simplify complicated ideas so that anyone will be able to follow them. Will the reader understand all parts of the story?
Lisa Schnellinger