14. Internal Accountability
14.1. Dealing with Inaccuracies
There shall be a systematic editorial structure in the Media Outlet to ensure that any inaccuracies in its content are corrected in a timely and transparent manner. This shall include a clear process to allow potential errors to be communicated to the Media Outlet by the public and those with knowledge of the story and for assessing and dealing with the claims.
Do you have a clear process to allow potential errors to be communicated to the Media Outlet by the public?
YesDo you publish that process?
YesWhat is the URL where it can be seen? Or, where is it seen next to each bit of Content?
Correction Process:
Error Reporting Channels: Dokuz Eylul provides various channels for reporting errors. The public, readers, and sources of the news can report potential errors to the editorial team via email (bilgi@igc.org.tr), phone (+90 232 463 3215), and contact forms available on the website.
Editorial Review and Assessment: Reported errors are promptly evaluated by the editorial team. Error claims are carefully reviewed and verified. If necessary, once the error is confirmed, the correction process is initiated.
Transparent Corrections: Corrections for identified errors are made visibly on the platform where the content was published. Correction notes clearly state the nature of the error and the corrected information, informing readers of the changes made.
Feedback Management: Dokuz Eylul actively manages feedback and approaches all claims from the public with a responsible attitude to ensure accurate information. Feedback is taken seriously, evaluated, and when necessary, responses are provided to the relevant parties.
Regular Process Review: Editorial processes and feedback mechanisms are regularly reviewed to prevent the recurrence of errors and improve publishing standards. This ensures Dokuz Eylul continuously enhances its publishing quality.
This editorial structure ensures that Dokuz Eylul maintains its commitment to accuracy and addresses content errors promptly and transparently. It is fully aligned with the principles of accountability and accuracy outlined in the Preamble.
Do you have a clear process to allow potential errors to be communicated to the Media Outlet by those with direct involvement in the story?
YesDo you have a clear process for assessing and dealing with the claims?
YesIf you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Process for Assessing and Dealing with Claims:
Initial Review and Acknowledgment: Upon receiving a claim of error, whether through email, phone, or the website, the editorial team promptly acknowledges receipt of the claim. This initial acknowledgment reassures the claimant that their concerns are being taken seriously.
Detailed Evaluation by the Editorial Team: The claim is assigned to an appropriate editor or journalist who is responsible for the content in question. The team conducts a thorough evaluation of the claim, which includes reviewing the original material, checking the facts, and consulting with sources if needed.
Verification and Fact-Checking: During the evaluation, the editorial team engages in a meticulous fact-checking process. This involves cross-referencing the reported information with verified sources, reviewing supporting documentation, and ensuring that the content adheres to Dokuz Eylul’s editorial standards.
Consultation with Relevant Stakeholders: If necessary, the team consults with the individuals directly involved in the story or those who have raised the claim. This consultation helps gather additional perspectives, clarifies misunderstandings, and provides a comprehensive view of the issue.
Decision Making and Correction: Based on the findings, the editorial team decides whether a correction, clarification, or retraction is warranted. If the error is confirmed, appropriate corrections are made, and a correction note is added to the original content, clearly stating what was changed and why.
Transparent Communication: Dokuz Eylul communicates the outcome of the assessment to the claimant, explaining the actions taken or the reasons why no changes were deemed necessary. This transparency fosters trust and demonstrates our commitment to accountability.
Continuous Monitoring and Improvement: The entire process is regularly reviewed and refined to enhance its effectiveness. Feedback from these assessments is used to improve editorial practices and prevent similar errors in the future.
These procedures ensure that Dokuz Eylul thoroughly assesses and addresses claims of errors, maintaining high standards of accuracy and accountability in its journalism.
Is there a systematic editorial structure in the Media Outlet to ensure that any inaccuracies in its content are corrected in a timely and transparent manner?
YesIf you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Systematic Editorial Structure for Correcting Inaccuracies:
Dedicated Error Reporting Channels: Dokuz Eylul provides multiple channels for the public, sources, and editorial staff to report potential inaccuracies. These channels include email (bilgi@igc.org.tr), phone (+90 232 463 3215), and contact forms on the website, making it easy for anyone to communicate errors directly to the editorial team.
Editorial Oversight and Assessment: A dedicated editorial team is responsible for reviewing all reported inaccuracies. Once an error is reported, it is assigned to the relevant editor who assesses the claim, verifies the facts, and determines the appropriate course of action.
Prompt Fact-Checking and Verification: The editorial team conducts a thorough fact-checking process to verify the accuracy of the reported information. This process includes reviewing the original sources, consulting with involved parties, and cross-referencing data to confirm or refute the claim.
Transparent Corrections and Clarifications: If an error is confirmed, the correction is made promptly, and a clear correction note is added to the content. This note explains the nature of the error, what was corrected, and provides an acknowledgment of the mistake, ensuring that readers are fully informed.
Accessible Correction Policies: Dokuz Eylul’s correction policies are made accessible to the public, detailing the procedures for reporting errors and the editorial commitment to correcting them. This transparency helps build reader confidence in the outlet’s accountability.
Feedback and Communication with Claimants: The editorial team communicates directly with the individuals who reported the error, providing updates on the status of their claim and explaining any corrections made. This direct engagement reinforces the outlet’s dedication to addressing concerns.
Continuous Process Improvement: The correction process is regularly reviewed and refined to improve its effectiveness. Lessons learned from previous errors are used to enhance editorial practices, reduce the occurrence of inaccuracies, and maintain high journalistic standards.
These systematic procedures ensure that Dokuz Eylul addresses inaccuracies in a timely and transparent manner, reinforcing its commitment to responsible journalism and public accountability.
14.2. Publishing Corrections
In particular, in relation to inaccuracies, a Media Outlet shall adopt good practice for correcting inaccuracies, such as making a clear indication of the correction in a similarly prominent place and manner as the original version, such as the same URL or in similar time and format of broadcast.
Does your Media Outlet guarantee the publication of the correction of all significant inaccuracies and errors in a similar place and manner as the original version, such as the same URL or in similar time and format of broadcast?
Yes14.3. Contact and Process for Complaints
A Media Outlet shall have a designated person and/or contact information in place for complaints. A process shall exist for members of the public to open a dialogue with the organisation in the event of potential breaches of its journalism principles or Editorial Guidelines. This information shall be easily available.
Does your organisation have a designated contact in the event of complaints about potential breaches of its journalism principles or Editorial Guidelines?
YesIf you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Designated Contact for Complaints:
Dedicated Ombudsman: Dokuz Eylul has appointed Yılmaz Coşkun as the Ombudsman, who serves as the primary contact for handling complaints about potential breaches of our journalism principles or Editorial Guidelines. The Ombudsman’s role is to review complaints impartially and work with the editorial team to resolve any issues.
Accessible Contact Information: The contact details for complaints are readily available on Dokuz Eylul’s website and in our publications. Complaints can be submitted via email (bilgi@igc.org.tr), phone (+90 232 463 3215), or through contact forms on the website, ensuring accessibility for all readers.
Structured Complaint Handling Process: Upon receiving a complaint, the Ombudsman evaluates the issue and coordinates with the relevant editorial staff to review the content in question. This process ensures that each complaint is given careful consideration and that appropriate actions are taken.
Transparent Communication: The Ombudsman communicates directly with the complainant, providing updates on the status of their complaint and explaining the findings of the review. This transparency ensures that those raising concerns are kept informed throughout the process.
Commitment to Accountability and Correction: If a breach is confirmed, corrective measures are implemented promptly. This may include issuing corrections, retractions, or clarifications, as well as reinforcing internal guidelines to prevent future breaches.
Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Feedback from the complaint process is used to refine editorial practices and improve adherence to our principles and guidelines. This ongoing review helps strengthen the overall quality and integrity of our journalism.
Public Reporting on Complaints: In some cases, outcomes of significant complaints and the actions taken may be publicly reported to demonstrate Dokuz Eylul’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
This designated complaint process ensures that Dokuz Eylul addresses potential breaches of its Editorial Guidelines responsibly, maintaining high standards of ethical journalism.
Does your organisation have a designated process for the public to open a dialogue with you regarding potential breaches of its journalism principles or Editorial Guidelines? (These may follow the Uniform Correction or Clarification act adopted by most U.S. States.)
YesIs that information clearly available?
YesWhat is the URL of where this information is available? If it is not on a single page, describe where people can find it.
Designated Contact for Complaints:
Designated Person: Complaints and feedback are managed by the İzmir Gazeteciler Cemiyeti (IGC) management team. The person responsible for this process is Reşat Yörük - General Secretary.
Contact Information:
Phone: +90 232 463 3215
Email: bilgi@igc.org.tr
Address: Umur Bey Mahallesi, Liman Caddesi, No:16/6 Havagazı Yerleşkesi, Konak, İzmir, Turkey
Complaint Process:
Submitting Complaints: The public and readers can easily submit their complaints and feedback using the provided contact information. This information is clearly displayed on Dokuz Eylul’s website and other publications.
Evaluation and Response Process: Complaints are forwarded to the editorial team and managed by the General Secretary. The claims are carefully reviewed, and dialogue is initiated with the relevant parties if necessary.
Response and Transparency: Feedback is provided on the outcomes of the complaints and evaluations. Dokuz Eylul takes complaints seriously and implements corrective actions transparently when needed.
Continuous Improvement: Feedback received contributes to strengthening Dokuz Eylul’s journalism principles and editorial guidelines, ensuring the continuous improvement of processes.
This structure demonstrates Dokuz Eylul’s commitment to accountability and transparency, ensuring effective communication with the public.
14.4. Internal Process for Complaints
The Media Outlet shall have a clear procedure in place to ensure that all staff are aware of the process that must be followed when such a complaint is received. For example in larger Media Outlets, it must be known and accepted that the creator of a piece of journalism that is subject to such a complaint must escalate the issue to a designated third person. A Media Outlet shall ensure that complaints are addressed within the Media Outlet in a fair, reasonable and timely manner.
Are your staff (Employees and Freelance) aware of the process that must be followed in the event of such complaints?
YesAre they aware that all such complaints must be brought to the attention of a senior member of staff (of organisations large enough to have a staff) not directly connected with the creation of the story?
YesIs your Media Outlet committed to the resolution of any such complaints in a fair, reasonable and timely manner?
Yes14.5. Independence of Ombudsperson
Where a Media Outlet's internal accountability mechanism takes the form of an ombudsperson, that person may be appointed by the Media Outlet; but in this case there shall be a transparent process for his/her appointment and the ombudsperson's independence shall be protected to ensure that he/she cannot be removed from the position simply for challenging journalistic or editorial decisions or actions.
Does the Media Outlet have an Ombudsperson?
YesIs the Ombudsperson appointed by the Media Outlet?
YesIs there a transparent process for their appointment and is their independence protected?
YesIf you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Appointment Process and Independence of the Ombudsman:
Transparent Appointment Process: The Ombudsman is appointed through a transparent process overseen by the editorial board and key stakeholders within Dokuz Eylul, including representatives from the İzmir Gazeteciler Cemiyeti (IGC). The selection criteria focus on the candidate’s experience in journalism, ethical standards, and understanding of editorial practices.
Qualifications and Criteria: The role of the Ombudsman requires a deep understanding of journalistic ethics, editorial guidelines, and media law. Candidates are evaluated based on their ability to handle complaints impartially and uphold the principles of independent journalism.
Independence and Impartiality: The Ombudsman operates independently of the editorial team and management. They have full autonomy to investigate complaints and make recommendations without interference from the outlet’s leadership or external influences, ensuring that their decisions are based solely on journalistic principles.
Protection from Editorial Influence: To safeguard their independence, the Ombudsman is not involved in the day-to-day editorial decisions or content production. This separation prevents any potential conflicts of interest and ensures that their role as an impartial reviewer is maintained.
Accountability to Ethical Standards: The Ombudsman’s role is guided by established ethical standards and a commitment to transparency. Their work is regularly reviewed to ensure that they remain unbiased, and they are accountable to both the IGC and the wider journalistic community.
Term of Service and Renewal: The Ombudsman serves a fixed term with the possibility of renewal based on performance and adherence to ethical standards. The renewal process is transparent and subject to review by the editorial board, ensuring that the Ombudsman’s role continues to be conducted with integrity.
Public Reporting and Transparency: The Ombudsman may publish reports on their activities, highlighting significant complaints and the actions taken. This public accountability helps maintain trust in the process and demonstrates Dokuz Eylul’s commitment to upholding journalistic standards.
These measures ensure that the Ombudsman is appointed through a fair process and operates with the independence necessary to effectively oversee complaints about potential breaches of Dokuz Eylul’s journalism principles.
14.6. Powers of Ombudsperson
Where a Media Outlet's internal accountability mechanism takes the form of an internal or external ombudsperson or equivalent, it should take steps to ensure that this person has powers to remedy any breaches of its Editorial Guidelines, provide redress to affected parties, deter future guidelines' breaches and provide an opportunity for its decisions to be appealed or reviewed.