Journalistic Ethics & Code of Conduct
NewsLive SA – Truth. Independence. Public Trust.
Our Commitment
NewsLive SA is committed to delivering high-quality, impartial, and trustworthy journalism that serves the public interest in South Africa and beyond.
As a digital news platform dedicated to covering local, national, and global stories with integrity, we adhere to the highest standards of journalistic ethics.
Our editorial practices are guided by the Press Code of the Press Council of South Africa (2019), alongside universal principles from the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ).
We invite readers, sources, and stakeholders to hold us to these standards.
Contact our ombudsman:
ombudsman@newslive.co.za
Our Core Principles
1. Accuracy and Truthfulness
We strive for the highest level of accuracy in all reporting. Every fact is verified through multiple credible sources before publication.
- Initial research by reporters using primary sources (e.g., official documents, eyewitness accounts, Stats SA).
- Cross-verification by at least two independent sources.
- Editorial review by senior editors with subject expertise.
- Use of Africa Check, FactCheck.org, and internal databases for contentious claims.
We distinguish clearly between news, opinion, and analysis. Corrections are prompt and transparent — see our Corrections Page.
2. Independence and Impartiality
NewsLive SA operates free from political, commercial, or ideological influence. Editorial decisions are never swayed by advertisers or sponsors.
- Funding Transparency: Full revenue disclosure available in our 2024 Transparency Report.
- Journalists disclose conflicts and recuse when necessary.
- No political endorsements. Election coverage is balanced and sourced proportionally.
3. Fairness and Balance
We provide the right of reply and reflect South Africa’s diversity in sourcing.
- Include voices from rural areas, youth, women, and LGBTQ+ communities.
- Minimize harm: Dignified reporting on trauma, crime, and vulnerable groups.
4. Accountability and Transparency
Our team of 25+ journalists is led by Editor-in-Chief [Name], a former Reuters correspondent. Full bios: Team Page.
- Every article has a byline. Anonymous sourcing requires editorial approval.
- Data-driven stories include methodology and raw data where possible.
- Compliant with POPIA and the Copyright Act of 1978.
5. Minimizing Harm and Privacy
We protect privacy unless public interest demands disclosure. Children and victims are anonymized when appropriate.
6. Professional Integrity
No plagiarism, fabrication, or distortion. Annual ethics and digital verification training mandatory.
Commitment to the Public Interest
NewsLive SA exists to inform, educate, and empower. We prioritize democracy, human rights, and sustainable development — aligned with the UN SDGs and the African Charter.
Our investigative unit exposed corruption in public procurement (2023 State Capture Remnants Series) and amplified climate justice voices.
Diversity and Inclusion
60% of our staff are women or from historically disadvantaged groups. Recruitment is merit-based and inclusive.
Sustainability
Carbon-neutral hosting. Digital-first. Green journalism advocate.
How We Uphold These Standards
- Internal Audits: Quarterly ethics committee reviews.
- External Oversight: Press Council of South Africa — all rulings public.
- Reader Engagement: Join our Community Forum.
Questions or Concerns?
Email: info@newslive.co.za