Sabc editorial policy 2017

SABC News editorial staff submission
2017 News editorial policy review process
31 August 2017

SABC News Editorial Policy Review Process 2017 Page 1 of 52
Table of contents
SABC Editorial Policies................................................................................................................... 3
Introduction.................................................................................................................................4
1. Preamble to the News Policy .....................................................................................................4
2. Editorial responsibility and upward referral................................................................................ 6
3. Current Affairs and information programming............................................................................ 7
4. Objectivity, accuracy, fairness, impartiality and balance .............................................................. 9
5. Language and tone in news ..................................................................................................... 10
6. Interviewing........................................................................................................................... 11
7. Political desk........................................................................................................................... 12
8. Presidential correspondents.................................................................................................... 12
9. Economics and business news ................................................................................................. 12
10. Foreign desk......................................................................................................................... 13
11. Investigative journalism......................................................................................................... 13
12. Multiplatform news............................................................................................................... 14
13. Use of guests, analysts and specialist commentators............................................................... 15
14. Paying forinformation........................................................................................................... 15
15. Public opinion surveys........................................................................................................... 15
16. Protection of sources ............................................................................................................ 16
17. Gender, children and under-represented minorities................................................................ 17
18. Children................................................................................................................................ 18
19. Privacy.................................................................................................................................. 18
20. Reporting on suffering and distress........................................................................................ 18
21. Editorial forum...................................................................................................................... 19
22. Broadcasting events of national importance........................................................................... 20
23. Election broadcasts............................................................................................................... 22
24. Restrictions on sponsorship of news, current affairs andinformation programmes................... 23
25. National broadcaster as a national key point .......................................................................... 24
26. Monitoring andimplementation............................................................................................ 24
27. Review ................................................................................................................................. 25
SABC Editorial Policies: Online platforms...................................................................................... 26
Preface ...................................................................................................................................... 27
Introduction............................................................................................................................... 27
Terminology............................................................................................................................... 28
Legal and regulatoryframework.................................................................................................. 29
Production and publication of digital content............................................................................... 32
Social media policy ..................................................................................................................... 35

Guidelines for official SABC social media accounts........................................................................ 37
Guidelines for personal social media accounts.............................................................................. 38
Updates..................................................................................................................................... 39
Annexure A: Meeting minutes | 1-30 August 2017.... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Editorial policy review: Sub-committees............................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Minutes:Editorial policyreview 1 August 2017 ........ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Minutes:Editorial policyreview 15 August 2017 ...... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Minutes:Editorial policyreview 17 August 2017....... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Annexure B: Going forward......................................................................................................... 49
Points for discussion after the policy review handover.................................................................. 50
Signatories................................................................................................................................. 51

SABC Editorial Policies

Introduction
The PublicBroadcasterof South Africa,the SABC,isexpectedtobe a pillarof democracy.Itis thus
incumbentonusto provide newsthatiscredible,accurate,fairandfree frompolitical interference and
commercial bias. The BroadcastingAct,the Code of Conduct forBroadcastersand the SABC's Editorial Code
setsout the essential requirementsfornewsandcurrentaffairsservicesthatare tobe studied,understood
and observedbyeverymemberof the SABC'snewsstaff.
The SABC Editorial Policiessetoutourstandards,ethicsandvalues. The policies alsoreflectthe wishesof
the SouthAfricanpublicandhave beencompiledinconsultationwiththe SouthAfricanpeoplewhoare the
ownersof thisnational asset.Theyseektoreflectthe standardsthat SABCaudiencescanreasonablyexpect
of theirnational broadcaster.ThispolicybindsSABCcontentproducedacrossradio,televisionanddigital
platforms. Theyare alsothe source forthe SABC’sCode of GoodPractice.
The SABC Board amendsthe Editorial Policiesfromtime totime tomeetchangingneedsandcircumstances
includinglegislationand technological advancementaffectingthe SABC.The policiesreflectwhatwe aspire
to be and what we seektoofferthe SouthAfricanpeople inthe interestof the progressof ourcommunities
and nation.The valuesandprincipleshereinexpressedare inline withthe nationalconsensusexpressedin
the Constitutionof the Republicof SouthAfrica,adoptedbyourcountrywhenwe movedintoa democratic
dispensationin1994. These standardsare inline withthe regulatoryrequirementsof ICASA,the
BroadcastingComplaintsCommissionof SouthAfricaandthe BroadcastingAct of 1999.
The SABC alsocarriesthe tagline perseveringtobe Africa’sNewsLeader.Itis inthisspiritthatthe public
broadcasteraimsto fulfil itseditorial responsibilitiestowardsreflectingthe multi-texturedvoices,desires
and ambitionsof the Africanpeople.
1. Preamble to the News Policy
SABCNews,with itsimmense reachshouldserve atthe behestof the people andbe the heartbeatof an
informedanddiverse nation. Thisdiversityshouldbe reflectedinthe all the programmingonSABCNews.
Givingtangible meaningtoourConstitutionalDemocracy,SABCNewsshould endeavourtoreflect
journalisticexcellence,avigorouspursuitof the truth,impartiality,trustandnationbuilding. These
principleshave all toooftencome underfire atthe national broadcaster.Therefore thisdocumentaimsto
create a frameworkthatstandsagainstall formsof censorship, includingself-censorshipandotherthreats
to free speechanda free press. Violationof the principlesof free speech,mediafreedomandthe

protectionof mediapractitionersshouldbe takenseriouslywiththe contemptthatthisdocumentsetsout
to do.
ProtectedDisclosure andthe protectionof sourcesare core principlesof oureditorial policy.Inthe
protectionof constitutionallyguaranteedmediafreedomandinaddressingthe negative trendof agrowi ng
onslaughtagainstthe mediaworldwide,the SABCensuresprotectionforitsmediapractitionersatall levels
of the organization.
Editorial integrityand anti-censorship:givenourpastthat isstrewnwithharmful censorship,thiseditorial
policyeschewscensorshipof anykindthatisnot prescribedinSection161 (a) of the SouthAfrican
Constitutionorprescribedinthe interestsof societybythe BroadcastingComplaintsCommissionandour
Licencingconditions.
Editorial independence:Fromall arms of the state and interestgroups.We believethatthe public
broadcaster’sgreatestpotentialisrealisedwhenitservesthe uniqueneedsof the local communityand
that there are wide variationsinlocal needs,issuesandtaste.
Universal Accessand diversity:Thisisthe principle thatwill ensure “somethingforeveryone always”,ina
societythatcomesfrom a periodof painand agonyof enforcedsegregationandinequality,we seekto
respectall our audiencesandprovide fairaequitable accesstothe publicallyownedairwaves. We thus
seektomake the broadcasteran accommodative space ratherthanan exclusionaryone.We seektobe a
dynamicanddemocraticallymindedspace thatallowsamultiplicityof views,culturesandlanguagestobe
even-handedlyreflectedbythe publicbroadcaster.
Fairnessis thusone of our primaryvalues.
Quality isof utmostimportance aswe seektogive excellentworktothe publicinaneffortto live upto
Accuracy, Objectivity,Balance andthe Responsivenesstothe Publicexpectationsof beingrespectedand
providedwitharange of social resourcesinthe formof ideas,information,subjectmatter,and
perspectivesrequiredtomake informedjudgmentsaboutthe issuesof ourtime. Creativity,artistry,
timelines,credibilityandtechnical virtuosityare whatwe seektoensure.
The SABC has a dutyto delivertopqualitynews,informationandanalysisthatSouthAfricanscantrust.This
policymustensure thatthisprocessisin stepwithdeliveringmeaningful news,currentaffairsandanalysis
froma SouthAfrican perspective.
Thispolicycoversall the news,currentaffairsandinformationprogrammingbroadcastbythe SABC,
includingnewsbulletinsandcurrentaffairsprogramsprovided onmultiplatform.Therefore SABCNewshas

a duty to provide consistent,relevant,useful andtop-qualityinformationandanalysisonwhichall South
Africanscan relyas theydiscussanddeliberate,formopinionsandbuildacommonfuture.
2. Editorial responsibility and upward referral
The scope of our programmingmeansthatthe SABC hasto provide consistent,relevant,useful andhigh-
qualityprogramming,includinginformationandanalysis.Tosustainanddeepenthe trustthe publichave in
the SABC,we have to maintainthe higheststandardsof performance.Inthisregard,the SABCrequiresits
editorial staff tounderstandthat withthe legislatedandconstitutional protectionof the Corporation's
independencecomesthe responsibilitytoserve the publicwiththe higheststandardsof excellence and
integrity. Accordingly,the onusisonindividual producersof programmesandcommissioningeditorsto
ensure thattheyunderstandandupholdthe provisionsof the BroadcastingAct,includingthe Charterof the
SABC;the Editorial Code, BCCSA andICASA.
As a rule,andas a matterof policy,the authorityforeditorial decisionsisvestedinthe editorialstaff.Inthis
regard,subjectto standardmanagementandeditorialcontrols,Executiveproducersandeditorsare
responsible foreitherthe productionof the programme orthe editorial control,orboth.Shouldany
difficultyariseduringprogramme productionorwitheditorialcontrol, should Executive producersand
editorsbe unsure of anything,theyshouldconsulttheirsuperiorsforguidance.
Giventhe recenthistoryanda highlychargedpolitical contextwithinwhichthe SABCnews division
operates,itisinthe interestof the public tomaintainan independentnewsroom.Editorial decision-making
mustrest inthe newsroom.Ininstanceswhere all editoriallinesare unable tomake adecision when
there’sadispute,aproperlyconstitutededitorial forumshouldbe taskedwithsuchdecision-making.
Thisprocessof voluntaryupwardreferral couldextendasfaras the Group Chief ExecutiveOfficer,inhis
capacityas editor-in-chief.The role of editor-in-chief isone of manyresponsibilitiesthatthe GCEO assumes
and shouldnotbe confusedwiththe functionsof the Headsof Radio,Television,News,Sportand
Educationor of the othereditorsandchannel andstationmanagersemployedbythe SABC.The GCEO's
role isnot to make day-to-dayprogrammingornewsroomdecisions.However,the Boardof the SABC
delegatesresponsibility,andholdsaccountablethe GCEOforthe performance of all newsandother
programmes,broadcastandpresentedonall SABCradio,television,internetandothermulti-media
platforms.
The SABC viewsupwardreferral asamutuallyempowering,nurturinganddevelopmental approachforall
the staff involved.Itisnotintendedtoshifteditorialdecision-makingupwards;itisintended,when
required,to underpincollective decision-makingandsharededitorial responsibility — especiallywhenstaff

are facedwithdifficultdecisions — andtounderscore the interdependence of the Corporation'scredibility
and that of its editorial staff.Upwardreferral is notintendedtodisallow productionandbroadcastingof
controversial andcompellingprogrammes;itisintendedtoassistinmaintainingthe highestethical and
editorial standards.
Whenusedeffectively,upwardreferral shouldbe aseamlessandflexible process.The earlieritisactivated,
the better,as thisallowsalternativestobe consideredatthe outset,insteadof later,whenfew optionsare
open.Itis an approachthat is takenbythe world'spremierpublicbroadcasters.Itassumesthateditorial
staffsare familiarwiththe functions,dutiesandvaluesof the publicbroadcasterandare in the best
positiontomake editorial decisions.The practice of upwardreferral givesjournalistsandothernewsstaff
an ideal mechanismforconsultation,first withpeers,andthenwithseniormanagement,before takinga
decision.
Evenwhenspecificeditorial advice isnotaskedfor,programmesornewsitemsthatare controversial,or
likelytohave anextraordinaryimpact,shouldbe reportedinadvance tothe seniornewsandprogramming
executives.They,inturn,maydecide tonotifytopmanagement.Shouldaprogramme produceroreditor
not referanissue upwardto theirsupervisornextinthe line function,thatprogramme produceror
commissioningeditorwould be heldresponsible forthe editorial decisionsomade.
All the editorial staff shouldaskforadvice fromthe Office of the Chief Legal Advisoronanymatterthat
may have legal implicationsforthe SABC.Inaddition,Legal Guidelinesforeditorial staff are available from
the Legal Department.However,the finaldecisionwhethertobroadcast,and inwhatform, lieswiththe
editorial staff,nottheirlegal advisors.The aimistosafeguardthe editorial processandmaintainclear
responsibilityforthe decisiontobroadcast.
3. Current Affairs and information programming
The SABC occupiesadistinctive positionof trustinthe livesof itsviewersandlisteners.We are the most
extensive,all-inclusive anddiverse newsorganisationinSouthAfrica.The SABCconsidersitadutyto
provide consistent,relevant,useful andtop-qualityinformationand analysisonwhichall SouthAfricans
can relyas theydiscussanddeliberate,formopinionsand buildacommonfuture.
The BroadcastingAct, the Code of Conduct forBroadcasters,National PressCouncil Presscode,ICASA,
BCCSA, and the SABC'sEditorial Code setoutthe essential requirementsfornewsand currentaffairs
servicesthatare to be studied,understoodandobservedbyeverymemberof the SABC'snewsstaff.

The SABC recognisesthe importantpartplayedbynewsandinformationinhuman,social and economic
growthand development,especiallyinsocietiessuchasoursthat are embarkingon nationbuilding.The
SABCtakesaccount of this,asit is inthese circumstancesthatnews, currentaffairsandinformation
servicescanbe the catalystforpositive andprogressive developmentandchange.
Throughthispolicy,the SABCiswell positioned - andunmatchedinthe market - to meetthe challenge of
tellingthe SouthAfricanstorywithcompassion,determinationandresolution,while creatingforumswhere
SouthAfricansfromeverywalkof life cancommunicate ideasabouttheir commonfuture.
The SABC shouldofferinformationthatissubstantial,andanalysisthat isauthenticand meaningful to
ordinary, enquiringSouthAfricanssothattheycan formtheirownopinions.Also, sinceourservicesare for
everyone'suse,theyshouldtake accountof representationandidentity, andreflectlife asitis.Thismeans
accounts andinterviews,andotherformsof presentation, shouldreflectanddraw on SouthAfrica's
diversityof people,languages,cultures,genders, abilitiesandclasses,andthe full spectrumof opinions,
perspectivesandcomment.
For the SABC toachieve these objectives,we require - andour audiencesrightlyexpect - the news staff to
upholdthe highesteditorial andethical standardsconsistentlyanddiligently.Clearly whatwe upholdasa
commongood forsociety,suchas decentandincorruptible values,robustandvigorouscreativity,and
healthyandwholesomegrowthanddevelopment,liesatthe very heartof goodjournalism.
The SABC's freedomof expressionanditsjournalistic,creativeandprogrammingindependence is
guaranteedandprotectedinlaw. The principle of editorial independence istherefore fundamental tothe
operationsof the publicbroadcasterandespeciallyimportanttothe functionsof the SABC'snewsdivision.
Each showand programme shouldhave theirownsetof SOPsthat shouldbe adaptable accordingtothe
changingenvironmentandcircumstances.
The SABC iscommittedtoupholdingthe independence of itsnewsdivisionand,flowingfrom thispolicy,
the newsdivisionwill developitsowninternal guidelinesonhow toentrenchthis independence anddeal
withpotential conflictsof interestinthe newsroom.Theseguidelines shoulddeal withinvolvementof
reportersinpolitical organisations,declarationsof financial or familyinterests,how giftsandfree travel are
to be dealtwith,etc.Asa publicinstitution,the SABCisoftenitself the subjectof itsownnewsreports.
Whenreportingonitself,the SABCmakessure thatitdoesso fairlyandfully.

4. Objectivity, accuracy, fairness, impartiality and balance
Objectivity
Since they are professionals,SABCjournalistsandothernewsstaff have personal opinions,beliefsand
preferencesarisingfromsocial,educational,cultural andotherformsof nurturing.SouthAfrica'sapartheid
past,and individuals'experiencesincontestingand livingunderit,alsoaccentuatesdifferencesthatcould
create unfairnessandpartiality,orperceptionsof suchbias.Itisthe responsibilityof SABCjournalistsand
editorial staff toensure thatthese formsof individualandcollective nurturingdonotleadto anyform or
perceptionof inequityorprejudice.
In orderto meetthe requiredstandardof journalisticobjectivityitisthe responsibilityof SABCnewsstaff
to be aware of such personal opinions,beliefsandpreferences,andtotake theminto account in gathering
and transmittingnews.SABCreportingshouldbe,andbe seentobe,accurate,fair,impartial andbalanced.
Our audienceshave the righttoexpectSABCnewsandcurrentaffairsprogrammingnotto reflectthe
personal viewsof editorial staff. Inassigningstaff,SABCeditorsshouldbe sensitive topublishedviews,
associationsandbackgrounds,soasto avoidany perceptionof bias,orof vulnerabilitytoundue influence.
Accuracy
Editorial staff mustensure thattheyinclude all relevantaspectsof anewsitem.Deliberateomissionis
unethical andrendersthe newsuntruthful.We report,contextualise,andpresentnewsandcurrentaffairs
honestlybystrivingtodisclose all the essential factsandbynot suppressingrelevant,available facts,or
distortingbywrongor improperemphasis.
Informationshouldbe verifiedtoensure accuracy,notingthe undesirable butreal existence of fake news
and misinformation. Whenaseriousfactual errorhas beenmade,itshouldbe admittedandcorrected as
soonas it isrealised.
Where appropriate,we should:
 gathermaterial usingfirsthandsources
 whereverpossible checkandcrosscheckfacts 
 validate the authenticityof documentaryevidenceanddigital material
 corroborate claimsand allegationsmade by contributorswhereverpossible
 We mustnot knowinglyandmateriallymisleadaudiences.We shouldnotdistortknownfacts,
presentinventedmaterialasfactor otherwise undermineouraudiences’trustinourcontent.

The Code of Conductrequiresany rectificationtobe presentedwithsuchadegree of prominenceand
timingasmay be adequate andfair inthe circumstancessoas to attract attentionreadily.
Fairness
SABCeditorial staff shouldalwaysendeavourtopresentstoriesinafairand balanced manner.When
exceptionalcircumstancesmake itimpossibletoachieve fairnessandbalance,orwhenadamagingcritique
of an individual orinstitutionispresented,those criticisedshouldbe givenanopportunitytopresenttheir
side of the story: the "rightof reply".Whenthe response fromsuchanindividual orinstitutionisreflected
ina subsequentprogramme,itshouldbe givencomparable prominence.
We are guidedbynewsmeritandjudgementinreachingeditorial decisions.Fairnessdoesnotrequire
editorial staff tobe unquestioning,northe SABCto give everyside of anissue the same amountof time .
Impartiality
Our independence issacrosanct. We do notallow advertising,commercial,political orpersonal
considerationstoinfluence oureditorialdecisions.The SABCisexpectedtoprovide information,andas
part of thisdutyshouldevaluate,analyse andcriticallyappraise governmentpoliciesandprogrammes.The
SABCis notthe mouthpiece of the governmentof the day. Impartialitycanbe obtainedbyseekingall the
facts andnot dependonone source only.
5. Language and tone in news
It isimportantfor the SABCto get itsfacts anduse of language accuratelytomaintainhighstandardsof
integritywithregardtolanguage.Givenournation'sdividedhistoryandpreviouslyunequal learning
systems,the use of SouthAfricanlanguagesshouldalwaystake accountof the needsandsensitivitiesof
our audiences.Thismeansthe use andtone of language shouldtake accountof our differentcultures,
religions,abilities,classesandexperiences;avoidingexaggeration,valuejudgment,unnecessary
provocation,andlackof objectivity.Presenters shouldalwayswarnthe viewersincasesof unavoidable
excessivelanguage insound-bitesevenwhere beepshave been usedandan“L” ratingsignusedfor
Television.KidsNewsneedstoalwaysensure thatthe use of language issuitable forchildren.
It has nowbecome a standardpractice for newsstoriesandbulletinstobe produced,broadcastand
published (multiplatform) inall elevenofficial languages.The use of non-official languagesneedstobe
emphasisedtoincludeNama,Khoi andSanLanguages.Where possible,the correctuse of SADCofficial
languagesshouldalsobe encouraged(FrenchandPortuguese).Thisisin line withthe SABCcommitmentto
developingAfricancontent.Signlanguage interpretationshouldbe monitoredbyareputable organisation.

The use of subtitlestobe encouragedincaseswhere there isnosignlanguage toensure equityforpeople
whoare deaf or hard of hearing.Thiswill alsoaidasa tool for language diversityif the transcriptisina
differenttranslatedlanguage.Thisisanotherimportantdimensionof language.Since inaccuracieseasily
creepinwhenstoriesare translated,onlystaff whohave the requiredlanguage skillsshouldtranslate
stories,andtheyshoulddosoaccuratelyand fairly.Presentersshouldendeavourtouse correct
pronunciationof wordsincludingnamesof peopleandplaces. The updatedand gazettedgeographical
namesto be used.
In redressingthe imbalancesof the past,the SABCshouldcommittoensuringthatnewsbulletinsand
programmesare broadcast duringPrime-Time (18:00– 21:00) in all official languages.Thisistoensure that
newsbulletinsinthe previously marginalisedlanguages(Tshivenda,Xitsonga,SiSwati andIsiNdebele)can
alsohave equal opportunityonvariousplatforms.
In measuringpurityof the language,the role of a Pan SouthAfricanLanguage Board (PANSALB)
representative shouldbe clearlydefinedinordertopreserve languages.Thiswouldassistinensuringthat
the dialectispure and that the language usedisformal.
SABCstaff,whose publicprofilesare linkeddirectlytothe SABC, should be mindful of the language usedon
theirpersonal social mediaplatforms. The tone of those involvedinthe story mustreflectthe moodof the
story.
6. Interviewing
Interviewsare animportanttool of journalism.Inordertoachieve the objective of aninterview tobreak
newgroundand getnewinformation,itisimportantforinterviewingtobe purposeful andwellresearched.
For an interviewtobe successful,itisimportanttoinformaninterviewee of the purpose of the interview,
itsdurationand anyother relevantmatter,andtoestablishhow he orshe prefersto be addressed.
Care shouldbe takenwheninterviewingordinarypeoplewhodonothave any experience of broadcasting.
We shouldalsomake allowancesforthe language barrier:confusionand misunderstanding,ordifficultyof
expression,mayarise whenaninterview isconductedina language otherthanthe interviewee'shome
language.If necessary,aninterviewershouldrepeat questionsandconfirmthatthe interviewee hasaclear
understandingof whatisasked,andmay requestthe interviewee to clarifyanswers.We shouldnotmake
assumptions,orreconstructan interviewee'sresponseslater;the interview isthe opportunitytodoso.

Conversely,interviewersare increasinglyfacedwithintervieweeswhoattempttosteerthe interview on
theirown course.In suchcases,interruptionsmaybe justified.Any unwillingnessto answerquestions
shouldbe shownup,butthisshouldbe done calmlyandrespectfully.
7. Political desk
The SABC as a publicbroadcasteriscommittedtocoverpoliticsimpartially, fairly,equitablyandwithout
prejudice.We reflectthe diversityof viewsof all political partiesrepresentedinParliament.We shall be
guidedbythe journalisticprincipleof impartiality,newsworthinessandpublicinterest.Althoughthe
governingparty,isinevitablythe primarysource of news,the voicesanddifferentshadesof opinionof
otheroppositionpartieswill be reflectedandgivenprominence inourprogramming.We are committedto
reportingobjectivelyandtruthfully.We willnotbe swayed toadopta particularpolitical partyline,butwill
be guidedbypublicinterest,seektoeducate andinformthe public.
8. Presidential correspondents
The SABC deploysjournaliststocoverthe Presidentof the country. Itis importantforthe South African
societytobe informedof the movementsandactivitiesof the President.Itmustbe stressedthatthe
journalistswill maintaintheireditorialindependence andremainobjective andthattheywill nottake the
role of the Presidency’sPRteam. SABCPresidentialcorpsare not embeddedJournalists.Their
responsibilityistothe people of SouthAfricaandnotthe President.The publicexpectthoroughandcritical
analysisof the Presidencyatall times.OurPresidential Correspondentsare expectedto be independent
and notto compromise theirjournalisticintegrity.Failure toadhere tothe SABCEditorial policiesguiding
the conduct of Presidential corps,will resultintheirremoval.
9. Economics and business news
The SABC is committedtoimpartial EconomicReporting. We will notbe swayedtoadopta particular
economicideologybutwill,inthe interestsof ouraudiencesandlisteners,seektoeducate andinformthe
publiconmattersaffectingthe economy. Highqualityeconomiccoverage isatool of developmentand
thusshouldbe made as accessible,simple andasuseful aspossible. The SABCnotesthe rise inthe interests
inthe economicaffairsof the country,the currencyand the markets.Itis forthisreasonthat we strive to
offerfairand balancedcoverage of the economy. We seektoincreasinglyensure thateachmemberof the
publiccan findeconomicsnewsandcontentthatisrelevanttotheirowncircumstances.

We welcome the challenge foreconomicreporterstointerpreteventsastheyaddressa non-expert
audience.Inthiswe recognise the role thatthe SABCcan playinpromotingsavingandinvestmentinan
impartial anddevelopmental manner.We will strivetopromote adeeperunderstandingof economics.
The SABC has a unique educational role inincreasingpublicunderstandingof the economy,marketsand
participationtherein.We are committedtopromotingarange of opinionsaboutthese mattersincluding
dissentingviewsandminorityperspectives.We are committedtoextendingeconomicnewstoall the
official languagesof SouthAfrica.We alsohave a dutyto challenge the dominantnarrativesonthe
economyandlistentoall valuable contributionstothe national discourse. We are committedtoengaging
withthe viewof ordinarycitizensaboutthe economyandmarkets,aswell asthose of a wide varietyof
economists,financiersandexperts.
10. Foreign desk
The foreigndeskof the SABC is an importantnational resource.Theyprovide professional uptodate
informationaboutthe worldforSouthAfricansinthe publicinterest.Likewise,theyeducate,informand
entertaincitizensacrossthe worldaboutSouthAfrica,herpeople,hercultures,herpoliticsandsociety. The
SABCas a credible publicbroadcasteralsohasa firmcommitmenttoSouth AfricansandAfricanslivingin
the Diaspora.Thisoverarchingcommitmentextendstothe widerglobal communityinnon-Africanstates.
In itsaimto provide newsthatiscurrent,timelyandreflective of thisglobal community,the SABCNews
divisionthus furthercommits tocapturingthe Africanstory, whilesubscribingtothe standardssetoutin
our editorial.
11. Investigative journalism
Investigative journalismisguidedbythe same editorial principlesof objectivity,accuracy,fairness,
impartiality, balance,truthfulness andrightof reply.
As a rule,SABCjournalistsworkinthe open.Clandestine methodsof gatheringnewsandinformation
shouldbe usedwithdue regardto the law,the rightto privacy,and the significance of the information.Itis
onlywhenitisin the publicinterest,canone use clandestine methods togatherinformationtowhichthe
publicnormally doesnotaccess.If there isan editorial concern,thenlegal oreditorial advice shouldbe
sought.

12. Multiplatform news
The News Divisionisthe producerof all newsandcurrentaffairscontentcarriedbythe Corporation’s
PublicBroadcastingServicesandPublicCommercialBroadcastingServicesonradio,televisionandonline
platforms. The SABCNewsonline platformsandservices, includingsocial media,are usedtoextendthe
reach of our publicservice newscontentandtoengage andexpandourradioand TV newsandcurrent
affairsaudiences.
The newEditorial Policiesshouldacknowledgethisrealityandshouldbe overhauledintotalitytoreflect
the multiplatformnature of ournewsservices. Tothisend,we compiledaseparate submissiontodeal
comprehensivelywiththe SABC’sdigital andonline mediaofferings.
The submissioncoversthe following:
 editorial policyframeworkfordigital andonlinecontent
 terminologytobe usedthroughoutthe Editorial Policiestoreflectthe multiplatformnature of the
SABC’scontentofferings
 legal andregulatoryframeworkforonlineservices
 the role of the PressCode foronline contentalongside the BCCSA andASA codes
 complaintsproceduresforonline andsocial mediacontentandcorrective actiontobe taken
 incorporationof PressCode clausestostrengthenthe EditorialPoliciesandbringtheminline with
the editorial standardsadheredtobythe restof the SA mediaindustry
 guidelinesforusergeneratedcontent
 dealingwithadvertisingandsponsorshipsandotherthirdpartycontent
 online copyrightandfairuse policies
 universal accesstoonline content
 standardsand proceduresforthe introductionof new online servicesandplatforms
 obligationsforonline onlyandbroadcastrelatedonline services,includinglanguage andprovincial
services
 social mediaasa tool forpublicengagementacrossplatforms
 editorial oversightof online and social mediacontent
 social newsgatheringguidelines
 social mediapolicyforinstitutionalandpersonal social mediaaccounts

For additional guidelines and principles of SABC’s online services, please see separate chapter “SABC
Editorial Policies: Online Platforms”. It is a comprehensive policy and is prescribed for all platforms.
13. Use of guests, analysts and specialist commentators
Thoroughresearchmustbe undertaken onthe backgroundof people toensure thattheydonothave
conflictof interest.Whileamultiplicityof analystsandcommentatorsare used,residentanalystsare not
frownedupon. Highqualityandskilledexpertsmustbe used.Editorial discretionmustbe exercisedwhere
necessary.Prioritymustbe giventoensure Genderbalance inthe selectionof guests.“Blacklisting”of
people willnotbe tolerated. We acceptall viewsandopinions. However,we will nottolerateincitementof
violence,hate speechandpropagandaforwar.
The publicexpectusto helpthemmake sense of eventsbyprovidingcontextandimpartial analysisandby
offeringawide range of viewsandopinions. Specialistexpertise mustbringauthorityandanalysistothe
complex worldin whichwe live.Searchingquestionsmustbe askedof those whoholdpublic office and
otherswhoare accountable,andprovide acomprehensive forumforpublicdebate. Commentaryand
editingmustneverbe usedtogive the audience amisleadingimpressionof eventsora contribution.
Editorials,analysis,commentary,andpointsof view mustbe heldtothe same standardsof factual accuracy
as newsreports.
14. Paying for information
We donot pay forinformation,exceptforthe servicesof fixers,guidesandtranslators.We donotask or
receive paymentforperformingourdutiesas employeesof the SABC.Briberyisaseriouscriminal offence
but mostimportantlyitcompromisesourintegrityasa newsorganisation.
15. Public opinion surveys
Pollingandrandomsamplingare methodsusedtodiscoverfacts,uncoverattitudesandconfirm
hypotheses.Thiscanbe done through online polls orsurveythroughscientificresearch.

However,toensure the validityandreliabilityof the findingsof suchresearch,ithasto be done according
to provenscientificmethods.Before broadcastingthe resultsof non-SABCsurveys,journalistsshould
obtaininformationonthe methodsusedandthe mainresultsof the survey;seekthe opinionof expertsin
the field,andconsultSABCMarketIntelligence onthe validityof the methodsusedandinterpretation of
the findings.The developmentanduse of IT basedanalytical toolswillbe drivenbyeditorial teamsinfull
consultationwithResearch andPolicyAnalysis andotherSABCas well external stakeholdersandservice
providers.The resultsof thistype of analysismustbe accompaniedbyashortdisclosure statementthatcan
be wovenintothe script.
The SABC may alsoconductits ownpublicopinionsurveys,forwhichittakesfull accountability. The Head
of ResearchandPolicyAnalysis approvesanysuchsurvey,includingthe design,questionnairesand
interpretationof the results,afterconsultationwiththe Group-Executive of NewsandCurrentAffairs.
Statementsgathered(liveorpre-recorded) frompeople chosenatrandom like vox popsare notscientific
surveys.Whensocial mediaplatformsare usedtogauge publicopinionitshouldbe presentedlikevox
pops;solelytoillustrate the range andtexture of popularopiniononatopical issue.If necessaryitmustbe
accompaniedbyrelevantdisclaimers. These shouldbe presentedsolelytoillustrate the range andtexture
of popularopiniononatopical issue.There shouldnotbe anysuggestion –explicitorimplicit –thatthe
viewsbroadcastinsucha surveyreflectwiderpublicopinion.
16. Protection of sources
The SABC firmlyupholdsthe principleof journalisticfreedomandseesthe protectionof ajournalist's
source as a keyelementof thisprinciple.Attimes,informationthatoughttobe givento the publicis
available tojournalistsonlythroughconfidentialsources.If the confidentialityof suchsourcesof
informationwere notrespected,itwouldrestrictthe free flow of informationinafree and democratic
society.We shouldestablishthe motivesof oursourcesandsatisfyourselvesthatwe are not beingusedfor
ulteriormotives,evenwhere we are requestedtograntanonymity.
In the eventof a source not wantingtobe identifiedpublicly,the SABCusesthe informationobtainedonly
whenthe source isknownto the journalistandhasprima facie credibility;the journalisthascheckedthe
reliabilityof the source andobtainedcorroboratoryevidencefromotherrelevantsources;andthe identity
and bonafidesof the confidential source have beendisclosedtothe relevantExecutive Producerahead of
the broadcast.

Whenprotectionof a source becomesa legal matter,the SABCdoesnotadvise itsstaff torefuse toobeyan
orderof a court, butmakesits legal counsel availableforadvice andtopresentlegal argumentincourtto
protectthe source.
We shouldtryto witnesseventsandgatherinformationfirsthand.Where thisisnotpossible,we should
talkto firsthand sourcesand,where necessary,corroborate theirevidence.We shouldbe reluctanttorely
on a single source.If we dorelyon a single source, anamedonthe recordsource is alwayspreferable.
We shouldrecordourresearchinterviewswithsourceswhereverpossible.Incircumstanceswhere
recordingmightinhibitthe source,full notesshouldbe made,preferablyatthe time or,if not, as soonas
possible afterwards.
17. Gender, children and under-represented minorities
The SABC shouldstrive toredressgenderinequalities,biasanddiscriminationineditorial contentby
ensuringfair,balancedandnon-discriminatoryportrayalsof women,children andunder-represented
groups in news.
Democratisationplacesanimportantresponsibilityonthe SABCtoinclude inournewsservices,consciously
and withdue prominence,the perspectivesandopinionsof women,childrenandminorities whoare
makinga crucial contributiontothe political,social andeconomiclife of SouthAfrica.Thisisone of the
importantcriteriaforensuringthatthe full range of commentisoffered,sothatour audiencesmayhave a
comprehensive overview of issuesinordertoformtheirownopinions.Newsstaff shouldtherefore
endeavourtoensure fairgenderrepresentationand ensure thatwomen,childrenand under-represented
groups equitablyparticipateinnewsandinformationprogramming.Thiswouldinclude the LGBTIQ
communityandpeople withdisabilities.
In the use of analysts,presenters shouldavoidstereotypes.People withdisabilitiesandof differentsexual
orientation,are tobe givenequal opportunityonthe basisof capability.The sexualorientationordisability
neednotbe mentionedif ithasnotrelevance tothe storyat hand.The use of derogatorytermsinvarious
languagesshouldbe avoidedat all cost.
Where possible,storiesshouldbe engenderedsothatwe don’tsaychairmanor chairladybutrather
chairpersonforinstance. NewsProgrammesshouldbroadcast informationonsocial issuesthatinclude
women,childrenandunder-representedcommunities.

18. Children
Children’s rightsare enshrinedinsection28 of the SouthAfricanconstitution.Inaddition,otherrightsin
othersectionsof the constitutionalsoapplytothem.SouthAfricancitizensunderthe age of 18 are
referredtoas children.Asthe SABC,we mustensure thatwe accord childrenandtreatthemas human
beingswhohave a voice andrightsthat mustbe affirmed.Atthe same time,we mustrecognisetheir
vulnerabilitiesandtreattopicswithor aboutthemwiththe necessarysensitivity.The editorial staff shall
ensure thattheyfamiliarisethemselveswiththe variouslawsaimedat protectingchildrenandthe
regulatoryframeworksforbroadcasters.SABCNewsshall notbroadcastmaterial thatisunsuitable for
childrenduringthe timeswhenlarge numbersof childrenare expectedtobe available. Consentforan
interview mustbe sought fromthe child,guardianoranyotherauthorityinlocoparentis.Ininterviewing
childrenindistresseditorialstaff musttake care not to induce secondaryvictimisation.
19. Privacy
Promotingthe dignityof all SouthAfricansisacornerstone of our Constitution,anditisfor thisreasonthat
the Bill of Rightsis socentral to it. The SABChas a special dutytoupholdthe Bill of Rightsandto respect
the dignityandprivate livesof individuals.Forthisreason,we respectindividuals'righttoprivacy,and as a
matterof policydonot violate suchprivacyunlessitis justiciableandinthe publicinterest.
20. Reporting on suffering and distress
In termsof the SABCEditorial Code we are circumspectinthe presentationof brutality,violence,atrocities
and personal grief. Whencoveringanyaccident,disasterorconflictthe SABCalwaysgivesafull,accurate
and factual account of relevantmatterssuchas time,locationandcasualtyfigures.Indoingso,we avoid
causingneedlessdistressoranxietytothose whoalreadyknow of theirloss.SABCeditorial staff covers
accidentsanddisasterswithcompassionandsensitivitythatis honestandgenuine.
The consequencesof atragic eventordisastercall forconsiderable sensitivityonthe partof the SABC.
Reportingonthese eventsshouldfollow well establishedprinciples:
 As a rule, care shouldbe takenwhenbroadcasting intrusive audioand visualsof the dead
 Those injuredorgrievingshouldnotbe putunderanypressure togive interviews
 As faras reasonablypossible,nextof kinshouldnotlearnbadnewsfrom multi-platformsnews
bulletinsoritems

 A funeral shouldbe coveredonlywiththe permissionof the family andtreatedsensitivelyand
withoutintrusion,unlesspublicinterest considerationsare apparent
 The time of dayof transmission,before orafterthe watershed,andaudience sensibilitiesshould
alwaysbe considered
 Whenthe contentof a reportor programme may upsetsensitive viewersorchildren,awarningto
that effectistobe given.
Newsbulletinsshouldbe preparedbearinginmindthatchildrenwatchTV duringthe dayand early
evening,especiallyinschool holidays.Thiscouldmeandelayinggraphic audiovisual details of aparticularly
disturbingevent,until the laterbulletins,whenitisreasonabletoexpectparentstobe ina betterposition
to monitortheirchildren'sviewing. Inall situationseditorialdiscretionmustbe applied.
In itscoverage of crime,the SABCavoidssensationalistreportsthathave nocontextorexplanation.The
SABCseekstoreport notonlyon the event,butalsothe humanconsequencesandthe subsequentjudicial
process.Where possibleavoidgivingpersonalopinionaboutsensitive issues.
SABC must document on Legal Guidelines pertaining to Editorial issues
21. Editorial forum
The SABC’snewsroomhasoverthe yearsexperiencedseriouschallengesof lackof integrityandcredibility
as a resultof editorial interferences.Thishaserodedourpublictrustandour abilitytomeetourmandate
inour youngdemocracy.As part of the mechanismstoensure newsroomdemocracyandavoidfuture
interferences,the SABCnewsroomshall appointaneditorialforumtoguardagainstany erosionof freedom
of expressionandadjudicatedisputesonmattersthatthreatentocompromise oureditorial standinginthe
eyesof the publictowhichwe have to remainaccountable.The forumshall be constitutedbyeditorial
managersand staff.
A separate guideline is available upon request

22. Broadcasting events of national importance
The SABC givesfull, orextended, multiplatformcoverageof events deemedbythe editorialcollectivetobe
national importance. Sucheventsmayincludethe Openingof Parliament,the budgetspeech,State visitsby
foreigndignitaries,Inaugurations,State funeralsand others;majorcommemorative occasions,andthe
proceedingsof national commissionsof inquiry.
Coverage of these eventsgivesSouthAfricansaccesstoimportantandrelevantinformationaboutour
developingnation.Onsuchoccasionsthe SABCstrivestoensure thatall itslanguage servicescoverthem.
To thisend,the language servicescollaborate with,andcomplement,one another'sprogrammesand
schedules.The PolicyonNews,CurrentAffairsandInformationProgramminggivesmore informationon
broadcastingeventsof national importance.
The SABC istherefore obligedtoputthe appropriate resourcesandpreparationsinplace toexecutethis
mandate wheneverrequired –includingforunexpected/unknownevents(whichshouldbe budgetedfor)
Appointmentof Legal Advisor to advice on Editorial Policy and RelatedMatters
The NewsDivisionshall contractalegal practitionerwithprovenqualificationsandexpertise onmedialaw
and ethicstobe available toadvise the newsroomandthe Headof the Divisionatall times.Due tothe 24-
hour nature of the newscycle such legal assistance shouldbe easilyaccessible fordecisions. The legal
advisorshall operate withthe aimtoupholdfreedomof expressionandpoint16 1 (a) of the constitution.
Live Productions
Live productionsare embeddedwithanumberof risks.Some canbe foreseenandmitigatedagainst while
othersare spontaneousandriskbound. Briefingswith the entire productionteam isnecessary tocautionof
such risksandhow to spotthese andto report these before andoras andwhentheyhappen.The News
Divisionisrequiredtohave anincidentbook.
The newsdivisionisrequiredtohave anincidentrecordsystemtoprovide recordtoissuesthatmaystem
out of production.Presentersasfaras possible needtobe experiencedandbe well preparedaheadof live
productions.
Other relatedissuesthat may stemout of live productions are:
 Insultsandor emotional inducinglanguage
 Pejorative comments
 Defamatoryremarks
 Inaccuraciesandwrong pronunciationof names/countries

Whenit comesto the above comments(insults,pejorative ordefamatoryremarks),the Executive Producer
and presentershouldbe vigilantandstopitimmediatelyonairanddistance the SABCfrom it.
It isimportantto conductdebriefsatthe endof each live productionsoasto respondonmattersthat
needseditorial,technical andorlegal attention.
The followingare also applicable to eventsof national importance and itsrelated productions:
Allocationof Resources
The SABC commitsitself toensuringfairallocationof financial andotherresourcestothe language services
so that theycan meetthe requirementsof broadcastingprogrammesof excellentquality.
In allocatingitsresources,the SABCtakesintoaccount the historical imbalancesbetweenEnglishand
Afrikaansonone hand,and the nine Africanlanguagesonthe other.Moreover,the SABCtakesinto
account that radio,owingtopeople’slowerliteracylevelsandpoverty,remainsformanythe onlymedium
available forreceivingessential educationandinformation,andgoodqualityentertainment.Special
attentionistherefore paidtodevelopingandexpandingprogrammesonservicesthattargethistorically
disadvantagedcommunities
Universal Access
Throughits Universal Service andAccessPolicy,whichisdescribedseparately,the SABCensuresthatits
language servicesare accessible all SouthAfricanlanguage groups.
GuidelinesforEquitable Treatment
 The term equitable meansjust,fairandreasonable — notnecessarilyequal— treatment.Inthis
regard,the SABC aimsto broadcasteveryofficial languageonitsmultipleplatforms,while ensuring
that programmesare accessible toaswide an audience aspossible.We aimtocomplementour
national televisionservice byprovidingregional servicesasrequiredbythe BroadcastingAct,(as
amended) pendingthe licensingof these servicesbyICASA andappropriationof fundsforthis
purpose,byParliament
 Equitabilityisachievedthroughacombinationof means,includingunilingual productionsand
multilingual programmesacrossall platforms.We strive toexplore the use of technologiessuchas
subtitlingtoensure thatprogrammesare accessible toasmany viewersaspossible.Attimesthis
objective ismetthe bestbybroadcastingincognate or widelyunderstoodlanguages.Whenthisis

applied,the SABCrotatesthe use of languagesinanycognate groupin orderto achieve
equitability.
In strivingtoachieve equitability,the followingmattersare takenintoaccount:
 The overall time allocatedtoeachlanguage
 Schedulingof programmeswhenmembersof the targetaudiencesare available
 The range of programme genresavailable ineachlanguage
 Financial andotherresourcesforprogrammesineachof the official languages.
 In determiningallocationof time toeachlanguage,the SABChasdue regard to:
 The numberof home language speakersinthe coverage areaof a channel
 The geographical spreadof the language
 The extenttowhichmembersof a language communityare able tounderstandotherlanguages
 The extentof marginalisationof the language
 The extenttowhichit isunderstoodbyotherSouthAfricans
 Available resources
These criteriaare intendedtoensure thatall the languagesreceive some airtime,butnotnecessarilyin
equal amounts.Moreover,whenthesecriteriaare appliedeffectively,we dedicate agreateramountof
programme time tomore widelyspokenorsharedlanguages,whilecommittingourselvestospecial
projectsformarginalisedlanguages.Newsshouldadhere tothe language policyof the SABC.
23. Election broadcasts
Thisnewspolicyisapplicable bothduringelectionsandoutsideof elections.Outsideof elections,the SABC
approachesitscoverage of political partiesasitdoesitscoverage of all othernewsmakers - we are guided
by our commitmenttoobjectivity,accuracy,fairness,impartialityandbalance.Assuchthispolicydoesnot
deal specificallywiththe coverageof political partiesoutside of anelectionperiod.
Broadcastingduringelectionsisatestingtime forthe SABC.Thisisbecause itisduringelectionsin
particularthat our commitmenttoobjectivity,accuracy,fairness,impartialityandbalance isscrutinised
closelyandevaluatedassiduously.Electionbroadcastsare regulatedbythe IndependentBroadcasting
AuthorityActand ICASA'sregulations.Duringanelectionperiod,the SABCisboundtocomplywith
additional ICASA guidelinesonequitable coverage of political parties,whichare onlyapplicableduringan

electionperiod.Notwithstandingtheseadditional requirements,newsdecisionsduringelectionperiods
have,as isthe case betweenelections,tobe drivenbythe newsjudgementof ournewsstaff,andtake
account of the needtoensure thatattentionisgiventothoroughexaminationof the views,policiesand
campaignsof all the political parties.Thisisalsoatryingtime for our editorial staff,whomayexperience
pressure frompolitical partiesseekingtoinfluence oureditorial decisions.Whileremainingcourteous,staff
shouldalwaysrefercomplaintstothe appropriate offices.
Newsstaff is requiredtostudy,understandandobserve the statutoryprovisionsonelectionbroadcastsin
the IndependentBroadcastingAuthorityAct(see Sections58,59 and 60) andICASA'sregulations.These
requirementsinclude the limitationsonpartyelectionbroadcasts,the time tobe made available topolitical
parties,the durationandschedulingof partyelectionbroadcasts,andpolitical advertisingduringelection
periods.Newsstaff shouldalsofamiliarise themselveswithanyinternal guidelinesdevelopedforelection
coverage,includingpoliciessuchasthe PolicyonElectionAdvertising.
No employeesotherthaneditorial staff mayengage inanyeditorial broadcasting.Nomemberof the
editorial staff of the SABCmayengage inany publicdeclarationof political;supportforanyparty to the
election.Thisinvolvesaprohibitiononwearingpartyregalia,electioneeringandposingforpictureswith
any of the partiesto the electioncoverage. The SABCshall,incompliance withthe Independent
BroadcastingAuthorityAct,cease partyelectionbroadcasts48 hoursbefore the pollingperiodbegins. In
casesof dispute withregardstothe coverage of electionsandthe conductof editorial staff the matter
shouldbe referredtothe Editorial Forum.
24. Restrictions on sponsorship of news, current affairs and
information programmes
The SABC's approachto the sponsorshipof news,currentaffairsandinformationprogrammestakesinto
account our publicandcommercial services'programmingresponsibilities,applicable legal andregulatory
requirementsasstipulatedfromtime totime byICASA,andthe overall performance andwell-beingof our
stationsandchannels.
Our overridingconcern,sharedbyICASA,istopreserve the editorialindependence andintegrityof the
programmesconcerned.Like ICASA,the SABCseekstoensure thateditorialcontrol of programmesremains
withthe broadcaster.Accordingly,itisthe responsibilityof broadcasterstoensure thateditorial
independenceandintegrityare not compromised bythe presence of advertisingandsponsorship,andto
demonstrate thistoICASA'ssatisfaction.

Sponsorshipof newsandcurrentaffairs onall SABCnewsplatforms hasbeenprohibitedbyICASA,andis
therefore notallowedbythe SABC.Weatherforecastsandsportsbulletinsthatformpartof TV news
bulletinsmaybe sponsored.Anyproductplacementwithinnewsandcurrentaffairsprogrammesisstrictly
forbidden.Similarly,anylivereadsbyjournalistsorprogramme anchorsisstrictlyprohibited.
The SABC mustensure itsindependence asfaras possible,inthe same vein,newsmaker-generated
content,especiallywhere there are commercial andpolitical interests,isprohibited.Onlyinexceptional
circumstanceswhere editorial discretionisused,will suchcontentbe allowed.
25. National broadcaster as a national key point
A publicbroadcasterasa national keypointisacontradictioninterms.We rejectthe notionthatthe SABC
isconsideredanational keypoint.The practice of journalismreliesonsourcesandit isthe responsibilityof
journaliststoprotecttheirsources.A journalistwhocompromiseshisorhersource isfrowneduponbythe
professionbecausehe orshe contributestomistrustof journalistsbysociety.Thissacrosanctspace of the
professioncannotbe guaranteedinthe national broadcasterbecause of itsstatusasa national keypoint.
26. Monitoring and implementation
As the needtoachieve BroadcastingUniversal Service andAccessaffectsmanyareasof the SABC, the
Board requiresmanagementtodetermine responsibilitywithinthe Corporationfordriving implementation
of thispolicy.
The Board also requiresmanagementtosubmitanannual actionplanforBroadcastingUniversal Service
and Access,outlininggoalsandresourcesrequired.Thiswouldensure thatdynamicchangesinthe industry
didnot make plansredundant.Itwouldalsoallow harnessingof technologicaldevelopmentstoassistin
attainmentof BroadcastingUniversal Service andAccess. A summaryof the previousyear'sachievements
shouldbe attachedto thisplan, including:
 A reportfromthe electedEditorial Forum,
 A reportfromthe Group-Executive of News;
Relevantaspectsof these reports shouldbe includedinthe Corporation'sAnnual ReporttoParliament.

27. Review
Thispolicyisreviewedbythe SABC NewsDivision everyfive years.

SABC Editorial Policies: Online platforms

Preface
The 2004 Editorial Policiesdonotrefertoonline andsocial media. Asaresultthissubmission hasbeen
draftedto comprehensivelydeal withthe SABC’sdigital andonlinemediaofferings. While there isaneed
to update all the chaptersinthe Editorial Policiestoreflectthe multiplatformnature of the SABC’s
commercial andpublicservice mediaofferings,the draftersof the new policiesshouldconsiderthe
possibilityof incorporatingthe bulkof thissubmission - andothersreceivedonthe same topic- as a new
chapter in the policydocument.
Introduction
1. Thissubmissionisinformedbythe SABC’svisionandmissionstatementsasexpressedinthe
Corporate Plan,withitsfocuson contentservicesofferedbythe SABC,irrespective of platform:
 VISION:The SABC inspireschangethrough enriching,credible,relevantand compelling
contentthatis accessibleby all.
 MISSION:To educate,informand entertain all audiencesaccessing SABCservices.
2. The SABC operatesina multiplatformenvironmentwhichisverydifferenttowhatwas inplace
whenthe Editorial Policieswerepublishedin2004. Current practicesrequire ashiftfrom the focus
on publicbroadcasting inthe Editorial Policiestoprovidingpublic service contentacross current
and future platforms,inline withthe SABCvisionandmissionstatements.
3. Thisapproach alsoacknowledgesthe now universallyacceptedmediacontentproductiontrendto
move awayfrom a platformbasedapproachto one where the content/storycomesfirst (focusing
on angles,treatment, contentelements,formats,etc) andthenthe distributionplatformsfor
versionsof the story.
4. The SABC’sdigital contentandonline platforms are:
a. integral to the SABC’s publicand commercial content offerings,
b. crucial in extendingthe publicservice mandate to a broader audience,and

c. essential to serve future audiencesrelianton digital and on-demandpublicservice
content.
Terminology
5. Clarityisrequiredonthe use of the words“digital”and“online”contentinthe policies:
a. Digital contentis an all-encompassingtermthatcan be usedto define contentand
platformsthatare accessedviadigital technology,whethertheyare connectedtothe
internetornot. Anexample wouldbe podcasts,which canbe accessedandlistenedto
online,butcanalsobe downloadedtobe consumedlateronoffline.
b. Online contentis accessedandconsumedonline andthusrequiresinternetconnectivity.
Exampleswouldbe the SABCNewswebsiteandSABCNewsYouTube channel,bothof
whichneedinternetconnectivitytobe accessed.All onlinecontentisaccessedusing
technologywhichmakesitfall underdigital content.
6. The textthroughoutall the chaptersof the Editorial Policiesshouldbe adjustedtoreflectthe
multiplatformnature of the SABC’scontentofferings:
a. changingtermssuch as “publicbroadcasting”to“publicservice media”or“publicservice
content”or “publicservice offerings”;andusinggenericphrasessuchas“content
productioninthe publicinterest”;the word“coverage”canbe usedto replace
“broadcasting/broadcasts”suchasin the 2004 policies:“Broadcastingeventsof national
importance”or“Electionbroadcasts”(p24)
b. referencesto“viewers andlisteners”,unlessonlyapplicabletoTV and radio,shouldbe
replacedwithmore generictermssuchas“the public”or“audiences”;orshouldbe
changedto “viewers,listenersandreaders”or“online users”
c. the words“programme”or “programming”or “bulletin”shouldonlybe usedforspecific
reference tobroadcastproducts;andshouldelsewhere be replacedwiththe more generic
“content”or “contentofferings”;insome casesphrasessuchas“programming
independence”canbe replacedwith“journalistic independence”.The 2004 chapter(p7) on

Programmingwill needtobe renamedandentirelyredraftedwithbroadcastandonline
contentinmind
d. whenreferringtonon-broadcastcontenttouse termssuchas “digital content”or“digital
contentservices”or“online services”,whicheverappropriate
e. where there isa needtospecificallyidentifythe publicationplatforms,touse “radio,TV
and digital oronline platforms”
f. whenthere isa needtodistinguishbetweendifferentdigital/onlineplatforms,to
specificallyrefertowebsites,social media,applications(apps) ormobileapps,online video,
online audio,online multimedia,etc.
g. the words“video”and“audio” and“graphics” or the all-inclusiveterm“multimedia”should
be usedto referto use of these formatsonany platform;and“radio” or “television”
contentonlywhenanissue isapplicable onlytothe radioorTV platforms,orwhensuch
material wouldneverbe publishedorrepublishedondigital platforms
Legal and regulatory framework
7. The SABC Charterin the BroadcastingActNo 4 of 1999, as amended,providesthe mandate forthe
SABC’sdigital andonline contentofferings. Clauses(i) and(p) of the Charterprescribesthe
followingSABCobjectives:
(i) Commissioning,compiling,preparing,editing, making,printing,publishing,issuing,
circulating and distributing,with or withoutcharge,such books,magazines,periodicals,
journals,printed matter,records,cassettes,compactdisks,video tapes,audio-visualand
interactive material,whetheranalogueordigital and whetheron media now known or
hereafterinvented,asmay be conduciveto any of the objectsof the Corporation
And
(p) Developing and extending theSABC’sservicesbeyond thebordersof South Africa.

8. From a regulatoryperspective,the BCCSA Code of ConductforFree to AirLicensees onlycovers
broadcast content;itdoesnotextendtobroadcasters’online content. Online mediaiscoveredby
the PressCode of Ethics and ConductforSouth AfricanPrintandOnline Media (annexure A)
administeredbythe SA PressCouncil andthe PressOmbudwithitsowncomplaintsmechanism.In
law,PressCouncil membershipguarantees exemptionfromthe FilmandPublicationsAct(including
the obligationtodopre-publicationcontentclassification). Asa subscriber memberof the Press
Council,the SABC Editorial Policiesneedto referto the PressCode in its Editorial Policies,inthe
same way thatthe BCCSA and the ASA are referencedinthe EditorialPoliciesasthe broadcast
regulatorybodies.
9. All SABConline services,includingonSABCbrandedplatforms,shouldcarryreferencestothe Press
Council,the PressCode andthe complaintsprocedures;aswell asreferencestothe BCCSA and ASA
for broadcastcomplaints.
10. In the 2004 sectiondealingwith publiccomplaintstothe BCCSA and ASA (p16-17), a new section
on “Complaintslodgedwiththe SA PressCouncil”shouldbe added;anditisrecommendedthatall
three codesbe publishedasannexurestothe Editorial Policiesforeasyreference.
11. While there are greatsimilaritiesbetweenthe BCCSA Code andthe PressCode,some clauses
applicable toonline contentshouldbe reflectedinthe Editorial Policies,suchasthe following:
1.9. Where a news item is published on the basisof limited information,thisshallbe stated assuch
and the reportsshould besupplemented oncenew information becomesavailable.
1.10. The media shall makeamendsforpresenting information orcommentthatis found to be
inaccurateby communicating,promptly and with appropriateprominenceso asto readily attract
attention,a retraction,correction orexplanation.
1.11. An online article thathasbeen amended forfactualaccuracy should indicateassuch.In the
eventof an apology orretraction,the originalarticle may remain,butthe publishermustindicate in
a prominentmannerthatit hasled to an apology orretraction – and should link to both the
apology/retraction and theoriginalarticle.
1.12. No person shall be entitled to havean article removed which fallsshortof being defamatory,
butis alleged by such person to beembarrassing.

 Note:See BBCeditorial guidelineson removal of onlinecontent.
12. The Editorial Policiesshould reflectandincorporate common issuesfromthe BCCSA Code and
PressCode to ensure consistenteditorial treatmentof issuesacross all SABC platforms.
13. In addition,clausesinthe PressCode whichdonotappearinthe BCCSA Code shouldbe
incorporatedintothe Editorial Policiesto strengthenthe SABC’s policiesandbring them inline
with the editorial standards adheredto by the rest of the SA mediaindustry. One example of
this:referencestochildreninthe EditorialPoliciesshouldbe alignedandstrengthenedwiththe
referencestochildreninvarioussectionsof the PressCode (clauses3.2,3.4, 3.5, section8,clauses
9.2 and 13.9). The PressCode isattachedas annexure A to enable the draftersof the new Editorial
Policiestocompare andadd applicable clausestothe new policies.
14. Regardingthe sectiononsponsorshipsandnewsprogramminginthe 2004 policies(p25),andwith
reference tothe PressCode clause 2on Independenceand Conflictof Interest, the Editorial Policies
shouldstate thaton all SABC online servicesthereshouldbe aclear distinctionbetweeneditorial
content and advertising/sponsored/advertorial/native content.Contentcontributedbyexternal
partiesshouldbe clearlyindicatedassuch.
15. Applicable sectionsof Chapter2of the PressCode (see annexure A),dealingwith usergenerated
content,shouldbe specificallyreferencedorincludedinthe Editorial Policies,includingthe
obligationsregardingthe publicationof usergeneratedcontentpoliciesonapplicable online
platforms.
16. The Editorial Policiesshouldinclude guidance on procedurestocorrect mistakes whensimilar
content ispublishedacross platforms. It oftenhappensthatcomplainantsrefertothe online
versionof a videooraudioreportwhichwasfirstpublishedonradioorTV. In dealingwith
correctingthese mistakes,boththe original radio/TV publicationandthe onlinepublicationwhich
remainsinthe publicdomainshouldbe addressed,dependingof course onthe nature of the
complaint.
17. Regardingcopyrightand fair use,the Editorial Policiesshouldrefertoor incorporate the Setof
PrinciplesinFairUse forJournalism (compiledbythe CenterforMediaandSocial Impactinthe US,

basedon practicesapplieduniversallyinonline,printandbroadcastnewsrooms)toguide
acceptable re-use of contentwiththe necessary attributionoracknowledgement:
a. Use of copyrightedmaterial asproof orsubstantiationinnewsreportingoranalysis
b. Use of copyrightedmaterial incultural reportingandcriticism, forinstance on
entertainmentreporting
c. Use of copyrightedmaterial as illustrationinnewsreportingoranalysis
d. Whencopyrightedmaterial isusedashistorical reference innewsreportingoranalysis
e. Usingcopyrightedmaterial forthe specificpurpose of startingorexpandingapublic
discussionof news
f. Quotingfromcopyrightedmaterial toaddvalue andknowledge toevolvingnews
g. Incorporationof copyrightedmaterialcapturedincidentallyandfortuitouslyinthe process
of recordinganddisseminatingnews
Note that the currentdraft of the SA CopyrightAmendmentBill makes provisionforthe practices
listedabove –but thislistmayneedtobe alignedwiththe forthcomingCopyrightAmendmentAct.
More guidance onthistopic: Copyrightlaw andonline journalism:aSouthAfricanperspective on
fairuse and reasonable mediapractice
Production and publication of digital content
18. The SABC’smaindigital/onlinecontentproductionplatformsinclude:
a. Websites
b. Apps (webandmobile applications)
c. Social media(e.g. Twitter, Facebook,Instagram)
d. Messagingservices(e.g. Whatsapp,FBmessenger,Snapchat)
e. Online video,includinglive streaming(usingserviceslike YouTube, Facebook Live,
Periscope,ownservices)
f. Online audio(podcasts,live streaming)
g. Otherthirdparty platformsforonline contentproduction andcuration(e.g.Storify,
SnackTools,infographictools,etc.)

19. In line withthe SABC’smissiontoprovide “contentthatisaccessible byall”, SABCmobileand
online offeringsshouldinclude low bandwidthformats;ensurethatonline andsocial media
contentisusable ondata zero-ratedplatforms;andutilise low bandwidthmultimediadistribution
platformswhere possibletoensure thatits online contentis universallyaccessible.
20. The rapid evolvementof online platformsandtoolsrequireoperational flexibilitytoadaptand
adjustto use the bestplatformsforthe right purpose atthe right time – so these platformsmay
needtochange frequently. The introductionof online services,includingnewsocial media
accounts, new toolsand newplatforms shouldbe subjectto set standards and proceduresto
ensure good governance and a uniformonline presence, managedandguidedbythe digital units
inthe variousdivisions(suchasDigital Newsinthe NewsDivision). Inthe processtotestand
approve newservices,digital unitsshouldconsiderthe publicadoptionof suchnew services,
maintenance of previousservices,appropriate publicationworkflows,internal trainingsupportand
adherence toSABCcorporate visual identitystandards.
21. The Editorial Policiesshouldacknowledge the SABC’seffortstopositionitself asthe primary online
source of publicservice content,inline withitsmandate,byrecordingthe followingobligations:
a. Offeringbroadcastindependentonline services andcreate online onlycontentbrands to
serve existingandnewaudiences,utilisingcontentspecificallyproducedfordigital
platformsaswell ascuratingand repackagingof audioand videocontent. These initiatives
are typicallydrivenbydigital contentproductionunitsinthe variousdivisions –suchas
Digital Newsinthe NewsDivision.
b. Productionof online content,inthe formof social media,podcasts,audioorvideolive
streaming,etcinsupport of existingbroadcast products, by the teams responsible for
those broadcast services – and where neededguidedbythe digital contentunits –to
serve existingradioandTV audiencesandextendthe reachof broadcastproductsto new
audiences.
c. Servingaudiencesoutsidethe reachof traditional broadcastservices,suchasthose outside
the bordersof the country;those whopreferondemandonline contentovertraditional
appointmentviewingandlistening;and(oftenyounger) audienceswhose media
consumptionpatternsshow apreference fordigital content.

d. Usingonline andsocial mediaplatformsfor publicengagementandparticipationinall the
SABC’scontentinitiatives.
22. In line with21babove,Editorsand Executive Producersincharge of broadcast slotsand
programmesshouldtake full responsibilityforall contentproducedbytheireditorial units,
whetherforon-airor online publication,includingsocial media. Online contentproductionshould
be part of the editorial planningprocess,integratedintoproductionworkflowsandsubjecttothe
same editorial approval processesasbroadcastmaterial.
23. There shouldbe a particularobligationon broadcastservicestoprovide consistentand
comprehensive onlineupdatesinthe formof social mediaandonline videoandaudio inthe
languagesin which theybroadcast; and for provincial bureauxtoprovide similaronline contentfor
theirgeographical areas of responsibility.
24. The way inwhich digital production and mobile newsgatheringand distributionhave changed
editorial workflows shouldbe acknowledgedanddealtwithinthe Editorial Policies.Forexample,
live tweetingorFacebookLivesfromnews eventsmeandirectpublicationwithoutgoingthrough
the normal editingandapproval processes –buton the other hand,itcan be comparedwithlive
broadcast crossingsfroma newsscene where the editorial integrityof TV or radioreporters’
contribution isassuredbypropertopicresearchandeditorial guidance. Itishoweveralwaysgood
practice for a secondpairof eyestoreview social mediacontentbefore publication.
25. It isthe dutyof editorial managementto directand monitor their staff’ssocial mediaoutput inthe
same way thattheymonitorlive programmingorrecordings,toenable themtoprovide editorial
guidance,spotproblemsquicklyandoverseeimmediate correctionswhenneeded,inlinewith
clause 1.10 of the PressCode.
26. The Editorial Policiesshouldincorporate orrefertothe Social NewsgatheringEthicsCode,
originallycompiled bythe US basedOnline NewsAssociationandsubsequentlyendorsedbymany
majornewsorganisationsaroundthe world,asa setof bestpracticesforthe gatheringanduse by
the mediaof contentcreatedby membersof the public:
a. Endeavouringtoverifythe authenticityof user-generatedcontent(UGC) before publishing
or distributingit,holdingittostandardsthat are equal or equivalenttothose maintained
for contentacquiredthroughothermeans.

b. Beingtransparentwiththe audience aboutthe verificationstatusof UGC.
c. Consideringthe emotionalstate andsafetyof contributors.
d. Consideringthe riskinherentinaskingacontributorto produce anddeliverUGC,including
whetheritincentivizesotherstotake unnecessaryrisks.
e. Consideringtechnical measurestoensure anonymityof sourceswhenrequired.
f. Seekinginformedconsentforthe use of UGC throughdirectcommunicationwiththe
individualwhocreatedit.
g. Beingtransparentabouthow contentwill be usedanddistributedtootherplatforms.
h. Givingdue credittothe ownerof the contentprovidingthatconsiderationhasbeengiven
to potential consequences,includingtheirphysical,mental andreputational well-being.
i. Endeavouringtoinformandequipjournaliststoconfrontthe dangersof engagingwith
sourcesthroughsocial medianetworksandthe digital footprinttheyleave behind.
j. Supportingandassistingjournalistswhoare confrontedwithgraphicorotherwise
disturbingcontent.Maintaininganorganizationalculture thatenablesjournaliststoseek
helpor speakoutwhentheyneedtoprotecttheirmental health.
 Note:More guidance on crowdsourcinginthe newsroom.
Social media policy
27. The Editorial Policiesshouldinclude the following social mediaguidelines forinstitutionaland
personal social mediaaccounts:
a. An individual’sfreedomof expressiononsocial mediamustbe balancedwiththe rightsof
othersto privacyand dignity,aswell asthe SABC’srighttoengage inboth commercial
activitiesanddeliveronitsmandate aspublicbroadcaster.
b. Social mediausersare personallyresponsible forwhattheypublishonlineandtheyshould
thinkcarefullyaboutwhattheypublishdigitally.Soundjudgmentandcommonsense
shouldguide theironline activities. Theyshouldnotpostcontentthattheyare doubtful of
or uncomfortable with.

c. Social mediausersshouldbe mindful of the global andpermanentnature of online
communications.Informationthatwouldnotordinarilybe revealedtoothersshouldnotbe
divulgedonline either.
d. The rights of others,as outlinedbythe Constitutionof SouthAfrica,are tobe respected.
Thisincludesthe rightsof bothindividualsandorganisations.
e. Opinionsshouldbe expressedwithoutusingpersonal attacks,genderandethnicslurs,
obscenity,social insensitivity,discrimination,orharassment.
f. Individualsneedtobe mindfulof andprotecttheirownprivacy,as well asthe
constitutional rightsof otherstoprivacyanddignity.
g. The SABC doesnotpay for followers,site visits,oronline friends –the numberof followers
or friendsshouldbe atrue reflectionof the account’sinfluence andreach.Employeesare
expectedtoadhere tothisprinciple intheirownsocial mediaactivitiesaswell.
h. Social mediacontentissubjecttodefamationlaw.Individualsshouldbe mindfulof linking
to material onthirdparty sitesthatcontaindefamatorymaterial.Theyshouldnotforward
or repostinformationof adefamatorynature – theycan be heldlegallyliablealongwith
the originatorof the content.
i. Social mediausersshouldbe readytodefendanythingtheysaidonline.Theyshoulduse
discretion,andrathererron the side of caution.Theyshouldavoidcrassor derogatory
language.
j. The SABC doesnotbroadcast gratuitousviolence,andthisshall be the case onsocial media
as well;social mediausersshouldtake care notto reflectanythingof thiskindintheir
social mediaactivity.Employeesshouldguardagainstlinkingtoorcommentingonimages
or videosof violenceorviolentacts.These canreflectonpersonal profilesandcould
expose accountownerstolegal action.Incitementtoviolence orhatredisa crime,and this
appliestoanysuch online andsocial mediaactionasmuchas anywhere else.

k. The SABC doesnotbroadcast explicitsexorpornographyanditsemployeesare toadhere
to thisintheironline activitiesaswell,be theyprofessional orpersonal.Onlinecontentof a
sexual nature shouldbe used,linkedto,orcommentedonwithextreme circumspection.
Guidelines for official SABC social media accounts
l. SABCsocial mediaaccountsare official SABCplatformsandservices,andare viewedas
beingasimportantand influentialasother,more traditional platformsandprogrammes.
The same forethoughtandplanningneedstobe appliedinusingthese digital platformsas
any otherSABCcommunicationplatform.
m. Knowledgeshouldbe sharedinaconstructive manner,beingsure toseparate opinionfrom
fact inwhat ispublishedonline.
n. Whenpostingcontentsuchas videofromthirdpartiesonofficial SABCsocial media
platforms,individualsandaccountadministratorsneedtomake sure thatyou are infact
allowedtodoso and that the SABChas digital rightsforthe relevantcontent.If theyare
not sure aboutthis,claritymustbe soughtfromthe relevantline manager,the producerof
the content,and/orthe SABC’sLegal department.
o. User generatedcontent(UGC),suchasonline commentssolicitedthroughanofficial SABC
social mediaaccount,needstobe treatedwithgoodwillandcircumspection.Individuals
may notclaimto own the intellectual propertyorcopyrighttoany UGC thatis not their
own.Official social mediaaccountsof the SABCneedto setoutin theirtermsand
conditionsordisclaimersthatusersgrantthe SABCpermissiontouse theircontentonany
official SABCplatform, butalsostate clearlythatthe SABCwill notclaimownershipof such
contentif it hasno such mandate or permission.
p. Justas the SABCdistinguishesbetweenastation/channel’scommercial objectivesand
newsmandate ingeneral,the same mustapplytosocial media.Sponsoredlinksshouldbe
clearlylabelledassuchandnot cloakedasjournalisticcontent.
q. Imagingandbrandingthat isconsistentwiththatof the SABC’svariousbrandsmust be
usedforall official social mediaaccounts.

r. Great care, sensitivity,andcautionneedstobe exercisedwheninteractingwithchildrenon
social media.While users’agesare notalwaysstated,where itisknownorsuspectedthata
useris a childtheymaynot be usedas an informationsource withoutthe consentof their
parentor guardian.Theiridentitymayalsonotbe made knownwithoutthe specific
consentof theirparentor guardian.
s. Whenindoubt aboutany social mediaaccountor activity,the standardeditorial referral
processesshouldbe followed.
Guidelines for personal social media accounts
t. Anyuse of social mediaplatformsusingworkresources,includingworktime andfacilities,
isopento the organisationforscrutinyandremedial action,shouldthisbe required.
u. Employeesmustrespectthe intellectual propertyandcopyrightof the SABCitself.
Individualsare notallowedtopostSABCcontent,be itvideo,audio,stills,orcopy,ontheir
ownsocial mediaplatformswithoutgivingdue credittothe SABC.Theymayalsonot create
the impressionthat theyownthe intellectual propertyrightsorcopyrightof anySABC
content.
v. No paymentswill be made bythe SABCforposts,comments,orreviews,andincentivesfor
furtherdistributionorreproduction(re-tweets,forexample)isdisallowedunless
specificallyauthorised.
w. Anysocial mediawritingorpostingbyan SABCemployee thatispaidforor incentivisedby
anyone otherthanthe SABC constitutescommercialworkorexposure andneedstobe
declaredandapprovedthroughthe standardSABCprocessesfor this.
x. As perthe SABC’sConflictof InterestPolicy,anemployee orrelevantstakeholder’ssocial
mediaactivitymaynotconstitute aconflictof interestwiththe SABC’smandate and
businessimperatives,be thatconflictdirectorindirect.Thisincludes,butisnotlimitedto:
self-dealing,advocacyactivities,acceptingbenefits,influence peddling,usingthe SABC’s
propertyand/orresourcesforpersonal advantage,usingconfidential information,
obtainingoutside employmentormoonlighting,ortaking advantage inpost-employment.

Updates
28. Regularupdatestothe online sectionsof the Editorial Policiesshouldbe done toalignitwiththe
SABC’sevolvingDigital First,MobileFirstandmultiplatformpublicationstrategies.
Press Code of ethics and conduct for South African print and online media
(Effective fromJanuary1,2016)
The PressCouncil of SouthAfricaand the Interactive AdvertisingBureauSouthAfricaadoptthe following
Code for printandonline media(togetherreferredtoas“the media”).
PREAMBLE
The mediaexisttoserve society.Theirfreedomprovidesforindependentscrutinyof the forcesthatshape
society,andisessential torealisingthe promiseof democracy.Itenablescitizenstomake informed
judgmentsonthe issuesof the day, a role whose centralityisrecognisedinthe SouthAfricanConstitution.
Section16 of the Bill of Rightsprovidesthat:
(1) Everyone hasthe rightto freedomof expression,whichincludes:
(a) Freedomof the pressandothermedia;
(b) Freedomtoreceive andimpartinformationorideas;
(c) Freedomof artisticcreativity;and
(d) Academicfreedomandfreedomof scientificresearch.
(2) The right insubsection(1) doesnotextendto:
(a) Propagandaforwar;
(b) Incitementof imminentviolence;or
(c) Advocacyof hatredthat is basedonrace, ethnicity,genderorreligion,andthatconstitutes
incitementtocause harm.
The mediastrive toholdthese rightsintrust forthe country's citizens;andtheyare subjecttothe same
rightsand dutiesasthe individual.Everyonehasthe dutytodefendandfurtherthese rights,inrecognition
of the strugglesthatcreatedthem:the media,the publicandgovernment,whoall make upthe democratic
state.

The media'sworkis guidedatall timesbythe publicinterest,understoodtodescribeinformationof
legitimate interestorimportance tocitizens.
As journalistswe commitourselvestothe higheststandards,tomaintaincredibilityandkeepthe trustof
the public.Thismeansalwaysstrivingfortruth,avoidingunnecessaryharm, reflectingamultiplicityof
voicesinour coverage of events,showingaspecial concernforchildrenandothervulnerable groups,
exhibitingsensitivitytothe cultural customsof theirreadersandthe subjectsof theirreportage,and acting
independently.
Chapter 1: Media-generated content and activities
1. Gatheringand reportingof news
1.1. The mediashall take care to reportnewstruthfully,accuratelyandfairly.
1.2. News shall be presentedincontextandinabalancedmanner,withoutanyintentional or
negligentdeparture fromthe factswhetherbydistortion,exaggerationormisrepresentation,
material omissions,orsummarisation.
1.3. Only whatmay reasonablybe true,havingregardtothe sourcesof the news,maybe
presentedasfact,and suchfacts shall be publishedfairlywithreasonable regardtocontextand
importance.Where areportis notbasedon facts or isfoundedonopinion,allegation,rumouror
supposition,itshall be presentedinsuchmannerasto indicate thisclearly.
1.4. News shouldbe obtainedlegally,honestlyandfairly,unlesspublicin- terestdictatesotherwise.
1.5. The gatheringof personal informationforthe purpose of journalisticexpressionmustonlybe
usedforthispurpose.
1.6. Mediarepresentativesshall identifythemselvesassuch,unlesspublicinterestortheirsafety
dictatesotherwise.
1.7. Where there isreasontodoubt the accuracy of a reportor a source and itis practicable to
verifythe accuracy thereof,itshall be verified.Where it hasnotbeenpracticable toverifythe
accuracy of a report,thisshall be statedinsuch report.
1.8. The mediashall seekthe viewsof the subjectof critical reportage inadvance of publication;
providedthatthis neednotbe done where the institution hasreasonable groundsforbelieving
that by doingsoit wouldbe preventedfromreporting;where evidence mightbe destroyedor

sourcesintimidated;orbecause itwouldbe impracticabletodoso inthe circumstancesof the
publication.Reasonable time shouldbe affordedthe subjectfora response.If the mediaare unable
to obtainsuchcomment,thisshall be reported.
1.9. Where a newsitemispublishedonthe basisof limitedinformation,thisshall be statedassuch
and the reportsshouldbe supplementedonce new informationbecomesavailable.
1.10. The mediashall make amendsforpresentinginformationorcommentthatisfound to be
inaccurate by communicating,promptlyandwithappropriate prominence soasto readilyattract
attention,aretraction,correctionorexplanation.
1.11. An online article thathasbeenamendedforfactual accuracy shouldindicate assuch.Inthe
eventof an apologyorretraction,the original article mayremain,butthe publishermustindicatein
a prominentmannerthatithas ledto an apologyorretraction – and shouldlinktoboththe
apology/retractionandthe originalarticle.
1.12. No personshall be entitledtohave anarticle removedwhichfallsshortof beingdefamatory,
but isallegedbysuchpersontobe embarrassing.
1.13. Journalists shall notplagiarise.
2. Independence andConflictsofInterest
2.1. The mediashall notallowcommercial, political,personal orothernon-professional
considerationstoinfluence orslantreporting.Conflictsof interestmustbe avoided,aswell as
arrangementsorpracticesthat couldleadaudiencestodoubtthe media'sindependence and
professionalism.
2.2. The mediashall notaccepta bribe,giftorany otherbenefitwhere thisisintendedorlikelyto
influencecoverage.
2.3. The mediashall indicate clearlywhenanoutside organisationhascontributedtothe costof
newsgathering.
2.4. Editorial material shallbe keptclearlydistinctfromadvertisingandsponsoredcontent.
3. Privacy, Dignityand Reputation
3.1. The mediashall exercise care andconsiderationinmattersinvolvingthe private livesand
concernsof individuals.The righttoprivacymay be overriddenbythe publicinterest.

3.2. Inthe protectionof privacy,dignityandreputation,special weightmustbe affordedtoSouth
Africancultural customsconcerningthe privacyanddignityof people whoare bereavedandtheir
respectforthose whohave passedaway,as well asconcerningchildren,the agedandthe
physicallyandmentallydisabled.
3.3. The mediashall exercise care andconsiderationinmattersinvolvingdignityandreputation.
The dignityor reputationof anindividualshouldbe overriddenonlyif itisinthe publicinterestand
inthe followingcircumstances:
3.3.1. The facts reportedare true or substantiallytrue;or
3.3.2. The reportage amountsto faircommentbasedonfacts that are adequatelyreferred
to and that are true or substantiallytrue;or
3.3.3. The reportage amountsto a fairand accurate reportof court proceedings,
Parliamentaryproceedingsorthe proceedingsof anyquasi-judicial tribunal orforum;or
3.3.4. It was reasonable forthe informationtobe communicatedbecauseitwasprepared
inaccordance withacceptable principlesof journalisticconductandinthe publicinterest.
3.3.5. The article was,or formedpart of,an accurate and impartial accountof a dispute to
whichthe complainantwasa party.
3.4. Rape survivorsandsurvivorsof sexual violence shall notbe identifiedwithoutthe consentof
the victimor inthe case of children,withoutthe consentof theirlegal guardians(orasimilarly
responsible adult) andthe child(takingintoconsiderationthe evolvingcapacityof the child),anda
publicinterestisevident,anditisin the bestinterestof the child.
3.5. The HIV/AIDSstatusof people shouldnotbe disclosedwithouttheirconsent.Inthe case of
children,the HIV/Aidsstatusof the childshouldnotbe disclosedwithoutthe consentof the child
(takingintoconsiderationthe evolvingcapacityof the child) togetherwiththe consentof theirlegal
guardianor a similarlyresponsible adult,providedthatsuchdisclosure isinthe publicinterestand
it isinthe bestinterestsof the child.
4. Protectionof Personal Information
4.1. For the purpose of thisclause “personal information”isasdefinedinSection1of the
Protectionof Personal InformationAct4 of 2013.

4.2. The mediashouldtake reasonablestepstoensure thatthe personal informationundertheir
control is protectedfrom misuse orloss,andtopreventunauthorisedaccesstosuchinformation.
4.3. The mediashouldensure thatthe personal informationtheygatherisaccurate,reasonably
complete andupto date.
4.4. Where a personrequestsacorrectiontobe made to hisor herpersonal informationunderthe
control of a member,the mediamusttake stepstoverifythe accuracyof the informationand,if
necessary,amendthe information.
4.5. Some personal information,suchasaddresses,mayenable otherstointrude onthe privacy
and safetyof individualswhoare the subjectof newscoverage.Tominimise these risks,the media
shouldonlydisclose sufficientpersonal informationtoidentifythe personsbeingreportedinthe
news.
4.6. Where itisreasonablysuspectedthatanunauthorisedpersonmayhave obtainedaccessto
personal informationheldbyamember,the mediamustinformthe affectedperson(s)andtake
reasonable stepstomitigate anyprejudicialeffects.
5. Discriminationand Hate Speech
5.1. Exceptwhere itisstrictlyrelevanttothe matterreportedanditis inthe publicinteresttodo
so,the mediashall avoiddiscriminatoryordenigratoryreferencestopeople’srace,gender,sex,
pregnancy,marital status,ethnicorsocial origin,colour,sexual orientation,age,disability,religion,
conscience,belief,culture,language andbirthorotherstatus,nor shall itrefertopeople’sstatusin
a prejudicial orpejorativecontext.
5.2. The mediahasthe rightand indeedthe dutytoreportand commentonall mattersof
legitimate publicinterest.Thisrightanddutymust,however,be balancedagainstthe obligation
not to publishmaterialthatamountstopropagandafor war,incitementof imminentviolence,or
advocacy of hatredthat isbasedon race, ethnicity,genderorreligion,andthatconstitutes
incitementtocause harm.
6. Advocacy
6.1. Membersare justifiedinstronglyadvocatingtheirownviewsoncontroversial topics,provided
that theytreattheirconstituenciesfairlyby:

6.1.1. makingfactand opinionclearlydistinguishable;
6.1.2. notmisrepresentingorsuppressingrelevantfacts;and
6.1.3. notdistortingthe facts.
7. ProtectedComment
7.1. The mediashall be entitledtocommentuponorcriticise anyactionsor eventsof public
interest.
7.2. Commentorcriticismisprotectedevenif extreme,unjust,unbalanced,exaggeratedand
prejudiced,aslongasit:
7.2.1. expresses anhonestly-heldopinion;
7.2.2. iswithoutmalice;
7.2.3. ison a matter of publicinterest;
7.2.4. has takenfairaccount of all material factsthat are substantiallytrue;and
7.2.5. ispresentedinsuchmannerthatit appearsclearlytobe comment.
8. Children
8.1. The Bill of Rights(Section28.2) in the SouthAfricanConstitutionstates:“A child'sbestinterests
are of paramountimportance ineverymatterconcerningthe child.”The media,applyingthe spirit
of thissection,shall therefore:
8.1.1. exercise exceptional care andconsiderationwhenreportingaboutchildren.If there is
any chance that coverage mightcause harm of any kindto a child,he or she shall notbe
interviewed,photographedoridentifiedwithoutthe consentof alegal guardianor of a
similarlyresponsibleadultandthe child(takingintoconsiderationthe evolvingcapacityof
the child),anda publicinterestisevident;
8.1.2. notpublishchildpornography;
(ChildPornographyisdefinedinthe FilmandPublicationsActas:Anyvisual image orany
descriptionof aperson,real or simulated,howevercreated,whoisorwhoisdepictedor
describedasbeing,underthe age of 18 years,explicitlydepictingsucha personwhoisor
whois beingdepictedasengagedorparticipatinginsexual conduct;engagedinanexplicit
displayof genitals;participatinginorassistinganotherpersontoparticipate insexual
conduct which,judgedwithincontext,hasasitspredominantobjective purpose,the
stimulationof sexualarousal initstargetaudience orshowingordescribingthe bodyor

parts of the bodyof the personin a manneror circumstance which,incontex,amountsto
sexual exploitation);and
8.1.3. notidentifychildrenwhohave beenvictimsof abuse,exploitation,orwhohave been
chargedwithor convictedof a crime,withoutthe consentof theirlegal guardians(ora
similarlyresponsibleadult) andthe child(takingintoconsiderationthe evolvingcapacityof
the child),apublicinterestisevidentanditisinthe bestinterestsof the child.
9. Violence,GraphicContent
9.1. Due care and responsibilityshallbe exercisedbythe mediawithregardtothe presentationof
brutality,gratuitousviolence,andsuffering:material which,judgedwithincontext,shouldnot
sanction,promote orglamorise violence orunlawful conduct,ordiscriminationbasedonrace,
national orethnicorigin,colour,religion,gender,sexual orientation,age,ormental orphysical
disability.
9.2. Contentwhichdepictsviolentcrime orotherviolence orexplicitsex shouldbe avoidedunless
the publicinterestdictatesotherwise,inwhichcase prominentindicationandwarningmustbe
displayedindicatingthatsuchcontentisgraphic andinappropriate forcertainaudiencessuchas
children.
10. Headlines,Posters,Picturesand Captions
10.1. Headlines andcaptionstopicturesshall give areasonable reflectionof the contentsof the
reportor picture inquestion;
10.2. Posters shall notmisleadthe publicandshall give areasonable reflectionof the contentsof
the reportsin question;and
10.3. Picturesand/orvideooraudiocontentshall notmisrepresentormisleadnorbe manipulated
to do so.
11. Confidential andAnonymous Sources
The mediashall:
11.1. protectconfidentialsourcesof information –the protectionof sourcesisa basic principle ina
democraticandfree society;
11.2. avoidthe use of anonymoussourcesunlessthereisnootherwayto deal witha story.Care
shouldbe takento corroborate the information;and

11.3. not publishinformationthatconstitutesabreachof confidence,unlessthe publicinterest
dictatesotherwise.
12. Payment for Information
The mediashall avoidshadyjournalisminwhichinformantsare paidto induce themtogive the
information,particularlywhentheyare criminals — exceptwhere the materialconcernedoughtto
be publishedinthe publicinterestandthe paymentisnecessaryforthistobe done.
Chapter 2: User-generated content
13. Guidingprinciples
13.1. Thissectionapplieswhereacomplaintisbroughtagainsta memberinrespectof comments
and contentpostedbyusersonall platformsitcontrolsand on whichitdistributesitscontent.
13.2. The mediaare notobligedtomoderate all user-generatedcontentinadvance.
13.3. All membersshouldhave apolicyinplace governingmoderationand/orremoval of user-
generatedcontentoruserprofilespostedonthe platforms("UGCPolicy").
A member'sUGC Policymustbe consistentwiththe Constitutionof the Republicof SouthAfrica.
13.4. Members mayremove anyuser-generatedcomment,contentoruserprofile inaccordance
withtheirUGC Policy.
13.5. A member'sUGC policyshouldbe publiclyavailableand:
13.5.1. Set outthe authorisationprocess,if any,whichuserswhowishtopostcommentsmust
followaswell asclearlysettingoutanytermsandconditionsand anyindemnityclausesduringsuch
registration process;
13.5.2. Setout clearlythe contentwhichshall be prohibited;
13.5.3. Explain the mannerinwhichthe publicmayinformthe memberof prohibitedcontent.
13.6. Members should,where practicable,place anotice onthe platformswiththe aimto
discourage the postingof prohibitedcontent.
13.7. The publicshouldbe informedthatUGC isposteddirectlybyusersanddoesnotnecessarily
reflectthe viewsof the member.

13.8. Users shall be encouragedtoreportcontentwhichtheybelieve violatesthe provisionsof the
Member'sUGC Policy.
13.9. Online forumsdirectedatchildrenandthe youngshouldbe monitoredparticularlycarefully.
14. ProhibitedContent
14.1. Material constitutesprohibitedcontentif itisexpresslyprohibitedinamember'sUGC Policy.
14.2. In additionto,andnotwithstandinganythingtothe contrary containedinamember'sUGC
Policy,contentwhichcontainsthe following:
14.2.1. Propagandafor war;
14.2.2. Incitementtoimminentviolence;
14.2.3. Advocacy of hatredthat isbasedon race,ethnicity,genderorreligion,andthatconstitutes
incitementtocause harmconstitutesprohibitedcontentforthe purpose of thisCode.
15. Defence inrelation to user-generatedcontent
15.1. It isa defence,inrelationtoanycomplaintbroughttothe PressCouncil regardingUGC,for
the membertoshowthat it didnot itself authororeditthe contentcomplainedof.
15.2. Thisdefence will notapplyinthe followingcircumstances:
15.2.1. the complainantsenta writtennotice tothe memberinrelationto the contentconcerned,
and
15.2.2. the memberfailedtoremove the contentinaccordance withclause 15.4 below.
15.3. The writtennotice inclause 15.2.1 must:
15.3.1. be sentviaemail orlettertothe particularaddressstipulatedbythe member;
15.3.2. identify the contentconcernedand,inparticular,specifywhere on the website the
statementwasposted;and
15.3.3. must explainwhythe contentconcernedisprohibitedeitherin termsof a member'sUGC
Policyorclause 14.2 above.
15.4. Upon receiptof a writtennotice complainingaboutUGCthe member must:

15.4.1. remove the relevantUGCfromthe platformassoonas operationally possible andnotifythe
complainantthatithas done so; or
15.4.2. decide notto remove the UGC and notifythe complainantof this decision.
15.5. Where a memberhasdecidednottoremove the UGC:
15.5.1. the complainantmaycomplaintothe Ombudin termsof clause 1.3 of the Complaints
Procedures;
15.5.2. it will be treatedasif the UGC had beenpostedbythe memberitself, andthe memberwill
be liable forsuchcontentif it isshownto be prohibitedintermsof clause 14 above.
 Source: http://www.presscouncil.org.za/ContentPage?code=PRESSCODE

Annexure B: Going forward

Points for discussion after the policy review handover
Urgentmatters to address
 Editorial Forum
 National Keypoint
 Commercialisationof NewsandSportsNews
 Strategyof SIU
 Petition101
 Recordof incidentsystem
Important issues
 Newssupportteams(HR,Finance,Transportetc.)
 Trainingandimplementation
 Operations
 Style Guide
 SOPs(Research,Technical andEditorial needtobe involvedinprocess)
 24 hour Channel’sbreakingnewsSOPs
 Languages
 DTT andregional accessto languages
 TV’sUniversal access
 Changesindigital space,creatingacore digital newsteamacrossthe platforms
 Residentanalysts
 Dedicatedconsumerjournalist

Signatories

Editorial review committee lead chairperson Date
Witness 1 Date
Witness 2 Date
/Ends

Sabc editorial policy 2017

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