1. Respect for truth and for the right of the public to truth is the first duty of the journalist.

2. In pursuance of this duty he will defend the twin principles: freedom in the honest collection and publication of news; and the right of fair comment and criticism.

3. The journalist reports only in accordance with the facts of which he knows the origin. He will not suppress essential information or falsify documents.

4. He will use only fair methods to obtain news, photographs and documents.

5. Any published information which is found to be harmfully inaccurate he will do his utmost to rectify.

6. He will observe professional secret regarding the source of information obtained in confidence.

7. He will regard as grave professional offences the following:

  • Plagiarism
  • Calumny, slander, libel and unfounded accusations
  • The acceptance of a bribe in any form in consideration of either publication or suppression

8. He recognises in professional matters, the jurisdiction of his colleagues only; he excludes every kind of interference by governments or others.

    ? Source: International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)