Sun Siyam Media – Code of Ethics & Editorial Standards

Version: 1.2
Effective date: 23 February 2022
Owner: Editor‑in‑Chief, Sun Siyam Media
Approved by: Sun Siyam Media Editorial Standards Committee
Applies to: All staff, freelancers, contractors, vendors, interns, and contributors working with Sun Siyam Media and its outlets: Sun Online, Sun English Edition, SSTV, and Maldive Islands

 

1) Purpose

This Code sets the ethical foundation and editorial standards that guide our journalism and media practices across Sun Siyam Media. It builds public trust, protects freedom of journalism, and ensures that our work is carried out responsibly and professionally.

2) Scope

This policy applies to all content published or distributed by Sun Siyam Media and its outlets (Sun Online, Sun English Edition, SSTV, and Maldive Islands) across platforms: television, radio, print, web, mobile, social, newsletters, podcasts, live streaming, and third‑party syndication.

 

3) Core Principles

  • Truth & Accuracy: Report with fairness, verify thoroughly, and correct inaccuracies promptly.
  • Independence: Avoid conflicts of interest and undue influence.
  • Fairness: Distinguish clearly between fact and opinion.
  • Accountability: Be transparent with corrections and responsive to audience complaints.
  • Minimize Harm: Respect dignity, privacy, and vulnerable groups.
  • Non‑Discrimination: Prohibit content that incites hatred, violence, or discrimination.
  • Public Interest: Serve society, not personal or political gain.

4) Legal & Regulatory Compliance

  • Abide by national laws and regulations governing journalism and broadcasting.
  • Respect defamation, privacy, election silence, child protection, and copyright rules.
  • Do not publish content that is knowingly false or defamatory.
  • Follow registration, licensing, and content standards as required.

5) Accuracy & Verification

  • Verify facts, quotes, images, and data before publication.
  • Attribute sources clearly and transparently.
  • Distinguish between verified information and commentary.
  • Ensure headlines and visuals fairly reflect the story.

6) Privacy & Dignity

  • Protect the dignity, honor, and privacy of individuals.
  • Personal data must not be misused.
  • Avoid publishing details that cause humiliation or disproportionate harm.

7) Prohibited Content

  • Knowingly false or misleading information.
  • Pornography or sexually explicit content.
  • Content violating public decency or cultural/religious values.
  • Defamatory or libelous content.
  • Hate speech or incitement to violence.

8) Right of Reply & Corrections

  • Provide subjects of criticism with reasonable opportunity to respond.
  • Promptly correct factual errors with transparent notices.
  • Publish clarifications where necessary.
  • Retractions or takedowns should only occur in exceptional cases.

9) Children & Vulnerable People

  • Protect identities of minors and vulnerable groups.
  • Obtain guardian consent for interviews or identifiable images.
  • Consider long‑term impact on digital records.

10) Conflicts of Interest

  • Staff must disclose personal, financial, or political ties that could influence coverage.
  • Gifts, travel, or sponsored content require disclosure and prior approval.
  • No coverage of entities in which staff have financial interests without mitigation.

11) Social Responsibility

  • Media must respect audience rights and uphold community standards.
  • Promote diversity, inclusivity, and accuracy in representation.
  • Avoid stereotypes and biased framing.

12) Complaints & Oversight

  • Provide clear channels for public complaints.
  • Acknowledge within two business days and respond within a reasonable timeframe.
  • Investigate thoroughly and publish outcomes where appropriate.
  • Cooperate with regulatory bodies.

13) Editorial Governance

  • Editor‑in‑Chief: Holds ultimate responsibility across all Sun Siyam Media outlets.
  • Standards Committee: Reviews ethical concerns and oversees training.
  • Assigning Editors/Producers: Ensure checks before publication.
  • Outlet Heads (Sun Online, Sun English Edition, SSTV, Maldive Islands): Responsible for implementing these standards within their respective teams.
 

14) Training & Review

  • Annual training on ethics, law, and editorial standards for all staff across outlets.
  • Quarterly audits of published content.
  • Code reviewed annually or when required by legal or regulatory changes.

© 2023 Sun Siyam Media. All rights reserved.
This Code of Ethics & Editorial Standards applies to Sun Online, Sun English Edition, SSTV, and Maldive Islands.
For inquiries or complaints, contact: [email protected]