Seek Truth and Report it:
Media cannot always guarantee truth, but getting the facts right is the cardinal principle of media ethics. We should always strive for accuracy, give all the relevant facts we have and ensure that they have been checked. When we cannot corroborate information we should say so.
Independence:
Media must be independent voices, we should not act, formally or informally, on behalf of special interests whether political, corporate or cultural. We should declare to our editors or the audience any of our political affiliations, financial arrangements or other personal information that might constitute a conflict of interest.
Fairness and Impartiality:
Most stories have at least two sides. While there is no obligation to present every side in every piece, stories should be balanced and add context. Objectivity is not always possible, and may not always be desirable in the face for example of brutality or inhumanity, but impartial reporting builds trust and confidence.
Humanity & Minimize Harm:
Media should do no harm. What we publish or broadcast may be hurtful, but we should be aware of the impact of our words and images on the lives of others.
Be Accountable & Transparent:
A sure sign of professionalism and responsible media is the ability to hold ourselves accountable. When we commit errors we must correct them and our expressions of regret must be sincere not cynical. We listen to the concerns of our audience. We may not change what readers write or say but we will always provide remedies when we are unfair.
Analysis:
Well the analysts consider the above mentioned as core principles of media ethics. A media person must be fair, impartial, and independent, must seek truth, must minimize harm and should be accountable. Reputed media outlets and media persons take these principles into account while performing their job in the field.
Another thing that must be added is that the media outlet owners should also me accountable in front of public. As the owners decide the policy of a media organization and it can be biased, which will definitely influence the mind sets of masses. So there should also be a check and balance on that especially in a country like Pakistan.
Moreover there is a rat race of ratings between media to break the news first. And for that they try to exaggerate the news which creates sensationalism among the viewers. So authorities and media controllers must have a look on that matter as well.
Media ethics is not just about news media, it also includes all kinds of content shown on television like entertainment, sports etc. Shows including vulgarity or violence must not be shown on television as they will effect on minds of young generation.
Last but not the least, media is evolving, a decade ago people used to rely on Television but now they have their own gadgets where they can watch any kind of media they want. Social media has aroused as more powerful medium then electronic media. But the problem is that anyone can post manipulated content on it. So new guidelines should me made taking social media into account as well.
