Ethics Policy
Buzz Capitol holds itself to high standards of journalistic ethics. This policy sets out the standards of conduct expected of everyone associated with our work, and provides guidance on the ethical issues that arise in everyday news reporting.
1. Truth and Accuracy
We tell the truth. Our first duty is to our readers and to accuracy. Everything we publish is verified, and we do not knowingly publish false information. We avoid sensationalism that distorts or misrepresents facts. If we don’t know something for certain, we say so.
2. Independence and Impartiality
Buzz Capitol is editorially independent. Advertisers, sponsors, political groups, and outside interests have no control over our editorial decisions. Our journalists report facts without bias and do not become advocates for the subjects they cover.
Political reporting at Buzz Capitol is held to the same standard: we present facts, relevant context, and a range of perspectives, without favoring one side.
3. Fairness and Balance
We give the subjects of our reporting a genuine, reasonable opportunity to respond before publication. On complex issues, we aim to present multiple perspectives fairly, and we cover individuals and groups equitably, without favoritism or discrimination.
4. Conflicts of Interest
Staff and contributors must disclose any personal, financial, or professional relationship that could present, or appear to present, a conflict of interest with a story they’re covering.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Reporting on a story involving an organization in which the writer has a financial interest, without disclosure
- Accepting gifts, trips, meals, or payments from sources or subjects of a story
- Participating in political campaigns or advocacy organizations while reporting on related topics for Buzz Capitol
5. Privacy and Dignity
We respect the privacy and dignity of the people we cover. Publishing information about someone’s private life is only justified when there is a genuine public interest in doing so. We take particular care when covering:
- People affected by crime or tragedy
- Private individuals who have not sought public attention or public office
- Minors
- Mental health or medical conditions
- Religion or personal beliefs
In line with guidelines from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Reporting on Suicide, we follow established industry best practices when reporting on suicide and self-harm.
6. Fabrication and Plagiarism
We do not fabricate quotes, sources, or events, and we do not tolerate plagiarism. All content published on Buzz Capitol must be original or clearly credited to its source. Any contributor found to have fabricated or plagiarized content will be removed from our team, and the affected content will be retracted.
7. Sourcing and Verification
We verify information before publishing. We prioritize primary sources wherever possible. Anonymous sources are used only when essential and in the public interest, and unconfirmed reports or unverified social media posts are never published as fact.
8. Sensitive Topics
We handle sensitive subjects including crime, violence, sexuality, race, and religion with care, accuracy, and respect. We avoid demeaning or stereotyping language and remain mindful of the responsibility that comes with publishing to a broad audience.
9. Social Media
Buzz Capitol’s reporters, writers, editors, and social media team are held to the same standards of accuracy, fairness, and professionalism online as in their published work. Personal political opinions shared on personal social media accounts should not compromise the objectivity of our newsroom.
10. Accountability
We take responsibility for what we publish. Errors are corrected openly, reader feedback is welcome, and content is never removed without explanation. We accept and take criticism seriously.
11. Transparency
We believe in being transparent about who we are, how we operate, and how we’re funded. Our editorial standards, staff, and processes are made public through our website.
12. Reporting Ethical Violations
If you believe a Buzz Capitol staff member or contributor has violated this Ethics Policy, or have concerns about something we’ve published, please let us know.
Email: info@buzzcapitol.com Subject line: “Ethics Concern”
All reports are reviewed by our Editor-in-Chief.