Code of professional ethics for journalists of azerbaijan

PRİNCİPLE 2: Respectful approach towards sources of information

2.1 The source must always be indicated while disseminating official information from organizations, parties, societies, unions and other interest groups. However, if the person who provides the information prefers to remain anonymous, journalists or media entities must adhere to his/her privacy conditions. The confidentiality of the source of information shall be protected.

2.2 The information provided by unofficial sources shall be checked for its authenticity and informative value before being disseminated. The content of the information shall not be distorted while being prepared for print.  When quoting from another article or speech, journalists should note precise starting and ending points of the quotation.  When printing photo-symbols (illustration, photo-editing) together with texts, it should be noted that such images do not have documentary importance. Titles of articles should correspond to their content.

2.3 Journalist should try to have his/her interview signed by interviewees or their authorized agents. If this is not possible, interviewees should be notified of the way in which the interview will be published and whether the questions asked by the journalist will be modified.

2.4. If there are no other methods available, journalists may use special equipment (hidden cameras, hidden microphones or other hidden tools) or methods (“fake” IDs and etc) as an exception for obtaining information that has public importance.

2.5. Journalists shall not resort to intimidation, application of force or threats in order to obtain information or images.