Editorial Code of Conduct & Field Reporting Standards
Mandatory operational principles governing ground correspondents, district stringers, and investigative desks of AVA News Network.
1. Accuracy, Fact-Checking & Double-Sourcing
Every story filed with AVA News Network must be rooted in verified truth. Correspondents must adhere to the following fact-checking standards:
Primary Source Verification: Whenever possible, claims must be corroborated by official records, on-record interviews, or primary documentation.
Two-Source Rule for Breaking News: Sensitive or unconfirmed breaking reports require confirmation from at least two independent credible sources before dispatch.
Right of Reply: Any person or entity accused of wrongdoing must be given a fair and reasonable opportunity to respond prior to story publication.
2. Independence & Anti-Bribery Standards
The credibility of AVA News Network depends entirely on editorial independence:
Zero Acceptance of Gifts or Favours: Correspondents are strictly forbidden from accepting cash payments, lavish hospitality, or personal favours from political parties, corporate entities, or subjects of reporting.
Paid News Prohibition: Any instance of extortion, blackmail, or demanding advertising revenue in exchange for suppressing or fabricating news leads to immediate police reporting and card cancellation.
3. Field Safety & High-Risk Reporting
Reporter safety takes absolute precedence over getting the scoop:
Always carry your official QR-verified Press ID card when covering protests, disaster zones, or election rallies.
Maintain regular communication with the Central Editorial Desk via the Reporter Hub filing queue when entering sensitive locations.
Do not place yourself or crew in unnecessary physical jeopardy. Obey emergency evacuation directives issued by disaster relief authorities.
