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15/09/2025
15/09/2025

World News Studio – Global Code of Ethics

1. Introduction

World News Studio is a global digital news platform owned and operated by Badana Communications and Business Pvt. Ltd., headquartered in Srinagar, Kashmir, India. The platform provides curated and original news content for a worldwide audience. As a responsible media organization, we recognize that journalism has a profound impact on societies, public opinion, and democracy. Our operations span multiple countries, cultures, and legal frameworks.

This Global Code of Ethics defines the responsibilities of all stakeholders, including employees, contributors, partners, advertisers, and audience members. Its objective is to maintain ethical, responsible, transparent, and inclusive journalism while ensuring legal compliance in every jurisdiction in which we operate.

2. Purpose

The Code of Ethics establishes the following objectives:

  1. Integrity in Reporting: Uphold the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and impartiality.
  2. Global Compliance: Adhere to the legal frameworks of all relevant jurisdictions, including India, the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries where our content reaches audiences.
  3. Trust and Credibility: Build confidence among audiences by promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct.
  4. Inclusivity and Accessibility: Ensure that content is inclusive, non-discriminatory, and accessible to users of varying abilities and cultural backgrounds.
  5. Protecting Vulnerable Populations: Maintain a special focus on protecting minors, marginalized communities, and individuals at risk.

3. Scope

This Code applies to all individuals and entities associated with World News Studio, including:

  • Employees: Full-time, part-time, interns, and contractors.
  • Contributors: Freelance journalists, guest writers, photographers, and multimedia specialists.
  • Partners: Advertisers, sponsors, and content syndication partners.
  • Users and Audience Members: Including commenters, newsletter subscribers, and social media followers.

The Code extends to all content, whether news reporting, opinion, commentary, or multimedia content, and applies to interactions in digital platforms, social media, newsletters, and offline communications.

4. Core Principles

World News Studio operates under the following core ethical principles, integrating international journalism standards and local legal frameworks:

4.1 Accuracy and Truthfulness

  • Verification: All information must be verified using multiple credible sources. Sources should be cross-checked to avoid errors.
  • Fact-Checking: Employ professional fact-checking practices to prevent the spread of misinformation.
  • Error Correction: Mistakes must be corrected transparently. Corrections should be clearly communicated to the audience, noting the original error and the correction.
  • Global Example: For EU readers, all factual content should meet GDPR data handling requirements during verification. For Indian content, follow Press Council of India standards for verification.

4.2 Independence

  • Editorial decisions must remain independent from commercial, political, or personal influence.
  • Employees and contributors must declare any potential conflicts of interest, financial incentives, or personal relationships that could compromise neutrality.
  • Regional Sensitivity: In Middle Eastern countries or regions with strict government media regulations, ensure compliance while maintaining journalistic independence.

4.3 Impartiality and Fairness

  • Represent all relevant perspectives in reporting.
  • Avoid sensationalism or emotional manipulation.
  • Differentiation: Clearly distinguish between news reporting, opinion pieces, analysis, and sponsored content.
  • Example: For global reporting, provide context for politically sensitive issues, explaining cultural and historical background to international audiences.

4.4 Transparency

  • Source Disclosure: Attribute all data, quotes, and references to credible sources.
  • Financial Transparency: Disclose sponsorships, funding sources, or affiliations that may influence content.
  • Decision-Making Transparency: Provide rationales for editorial decisions, especially in contentious or sensitive reporting.

4.5 Accountability

  • Individuals are responsible for the content they produce or approve.
  • Editorial teams should maintain detailed records of research, interviews, and internal approvals for accountability.
  • Mechanisms must exist for internal and external complaints, with timely and documented resolution.

4.6 Respect and Inclusivity

  • Avoid discriminatory or derogatory content against any individual or group based on race, gender, religion, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or age.
  • Promote diversity in reporting and representation.
  • Include perspectives from underrepresented communities and minority groups.
  • Localized Context: Ensure cultural sensitivity in content tailored for regions with specific social norms (e.g., Middle East, South Asia, Africa).

4.7 Protection of Minors

  • Implement strict age-based classification of content.
  • Restrict access to content deemed unsuitable for children, including violence, adult themes, or politically sensitive material.
  • Ensure compliance with COPPA (USA), POCSO (India), and EU child protection standards.

5. Editorial Integrity

5.1 Verification and Sourcing

  • All claims must be verified with multiple credible sources.
  • Identify sources clearly; anonymous sources may be used only when safety or confidentiality is critical, with editorial review.
  • Sensitive content must protect source privacy and identity, especially in countries with press suppression.

5.2 Distinguishing Opinion from Fact

  • Opinion, commentary, and analysis should be clearly labeled.
  • Editorial content must not masquerade as news.
  • Global audiences should be aware of regional biases or cultural interpretations in opinion pieces.

5.3 Accuracy in Visual and Multimedia Content

  • Images, videos, and graphics must accurately represent events.
  • Manipulation, staging, or misleading representation is prohibited.
  • Any AI-generated or computer-enhanced media must be clearly disclosed.

6. Global Legal Compliance

World News Studio operates globally, which requires strict adherence to local, regional, and international laws. Compliance ensures ethical journalism while protecting the platform, contributors, and audience from legal risks.

6.1 Indian Legal Compliance

  1. Information Technology Act 2000 (IT Act)
    • World News Studio complies with intermediary liability rules, ensuring content moderation and removal of unlawful material.
    • Follows the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021, which mandate content classification, grievance redressal, and transparency in digital media operations.
  2. Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act 2023)
    • User personal data is collected, stored, and processed with explicit consent.
    • Users are informed about data usage, retention, and rights to correction or deletion.
  3. Press Council of India Guidelines
    • Ensures fair, accurate, and responsible reporting.
    • Avoids sensationalism, defamation, and content that undermines public order.
  4. Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO)
    • Restricts publishing of content endangering minors.
    • Implements age-appropriate restrictions for sensitive content.

6.2 European Union (EU)

  1. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
    • User data collected in the EU must have clear, informed consent.
    • Rights include access, correction, deletion, and portability.
    • Data transfers outside the EU must comply with GDPR adequacy standards.
  2. Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD)
    • Content must follow EU standards for audiovisual content, including protection of minors and avoidance of harmful material.
  3. Accessibility Compliance (EN 301 549)
    • Digital platforms must be accessible to persons with disabilities, in accordance with EU standards.

6.3 United States (US)

  1. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)
    • Restricts data collection from children under 13 without parental consent.
    • Provides transparency on data usage in child-directed content.
  2. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Guidelines
    • Ensures advertising transparency and protection from deceptive marketing.
    • Sponsored content must be clearly disclosed.
  3. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
    • Digital accessibility requirements for all users, including screen reader compatibility and alternative text.

6.4 United Kingdom (UK)

  1. Data Protection Act 2018
    • Local implementation of GDPR principles for UK users.
    • Enforces lawful processing of personal data and user rights.
  2. Equality Act 2010
    • Ensures reporting does not discriminate on protected characteristics, including race, gender, religion, or disability.
  3. Ofcom Broadcasting Standards
    • Guides responsible content creation and avoids harmful material in digital broadcasting.

6.5 Middle East and Africa

  1. Regional Media Laws
    • Respect local content restrictions while upholding ethical journalism.
    • Avoid publishing material considered illegal under local Sharia-based or other national regulations.
  2. Human Rights Compliance
    • Reporting must respect international human rights standards while navigating local restrictions.
    • Sensitive coverage of protests, conflicts, or religion must balance factual reporting with local legal restrictions.

6.6 Global Human Rights and Ethical Standards

  1. Freedom of Expression (Article 19, UDHR)
    • Content must uphold global freedom of expression without inciting violence or hate.
  2. UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
    • Accessibility for users with disabilities, including visual, auditory, and cognitive accommodations.
  3. International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) Standards
    • Upholds press freedom, safety of journalists, and ethical reporting globally.

7. Content Standards

World News Studio follows strict standards for all published content, ensuring ethical, responsible, and culturally sensitive reporting.

7.1 Content Classification

  1. Age-Based Classification
    • G (General): Suitable for all audiences
    • 13+ (Teen): Contains mild language, minimal violence
    • 18+ (Adult): Contains strong language, graphic content, political or sensitive material
  2. Sensitive Content Warning
    • Violence, explicit language, political unrest, or sexual content must have clear warnings.

7.2 Cultural Sensitivity

  1. Contextual Reporting
    • Global audiences may not understand local cultural, historical, or political contexts.
    • Content includes contextual explanations without imposing bias.
  2. Respect for Local Norms
    • Avoids material offensive to cultural or religious values in different countries.
    • Example: Content for Middle Eastern countries avoids depictions contrary to local customs while maintaining factual reporting.
  3. Language Sensitivity
    • Avoids derogatory terms, hate speech, and inflammatory language.
    • Maintains neutral terminology in conflict or politically sensitive reporting.

7.3 Accuracy in Multimedia Content

  1. Image and Video Integrity
    • No digital manipulation to mislead audiences.
    • All multimedia content is clearly labeled if AI-generated or digitally enhanced.
  2. Subtitles and Captions
    • Videos include accurate captions in multiple languages.
    • Provides accessibility for hearing-impaired users globally.
  3. Local Context
    • Maps, graphics, and charts must accurately reflect geopolitical boundaries recognized by local and international authorities.
    • Example: Border disputes or contested territories must be reported factually without political bias.

7.4 Multilingual Reporting

  1. Translation Accuracy
    • News content translated for global audiences must preserve accuracy and context.
    • Sensitive political, legal, or cultural terms must be appropriately localized.
  2. Cultural Relevance
    • Examples, metaphors, and idioms adapted to regional understanding.
    • Ensures global comprehension while retaining authenticity of original content.

8. Accessibility Standards

World News Studio is committed to making content accessible to all users, including persons with disabilities.

8.1 Global Accessibility Guidelines

  1. WCAG 2.1 Compliance
    • Ensures digital content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust.
    • Includes alt-text for images, descriptive links, and keyboard navigation.
  2. Language Accessibility
    • Multiple language options for navigation and content.
    • Audio descriptions for visual content and screen-reader-friendly formatting.
  3. Device Compatibility
    • Mobile-first design ensuring accessibility on smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers.
    • Responsive layouts and adaptive media for diverse user environments.

8.2 Local Accessibility Considerations

  1. India
    • Complies with guidelines under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and Indian IT Act accessibility requirements.
  2. EU
    • Implements EN 301 549 standard for accessible ICT products.
  3. US
    • ADA compliance for digital platforms ensures equitable access.
  4. Other Regions
    • Implements region-specific accessibility measures based on legal and cultural norms.

9. Social Media and Community Engagement

As a global digital platform, World News Studio recognizes that social media is a critical channel for audience engagement, news dissemination, and community building. However, social media presents unique ethical, legal, and operational challenges, which we address through the following guidelines.

9.1 Content Sharing and Moderation

  1. Verification Before Posting
    • All content shared on social media channels must undergo verification to ensure accuracy.
    • Rumors, unverified claims, or potentially harmful content are strictly prohibited.
  2. Moderation Policies
    • Implement automated and human moderation systems to monitor user comments and interactions.
    • Remove content that violates laws, promotes hate speech, contains harassment, or spreads misinformation.
  3. Transparency in Moderation
    • Clearly communicate the moderation process to users, including reasons for content removal or restriction.
    • Allow users to appeal moderation decisions through accessible grievance channels.

9.2 Community Guidelines for Global Audiences

  1. Respectful Interaction
    • All users must engage respectfully, avoiding personal attacks, discriminatory language, or incitement to violence.
  2. Misinformation and Disinformation
    • Posting false or misleading content is strictly prohibited.
    • Users are encouraged to report suspicious content to the platform.
  3. Privacy Protection
    • Do not share personal information of other users without consent.
    • Violations may result in account suspension or legal action.

9.3 Engagement with International Audiences

  1. Cultural Sensitivity
    • Social media content must respect the cultural norms of each region while maintaining global standards of free expression.
    • Avoid content that could unintentionally offend or misrepresent local populations.
  2. Time Zone and Regional Relevance
    • Scheduling posts and responses should consider time zones, regional events, and local sensitivities.
  3. Multilingual Communication
    • Provide support in multiple languages to ensure accessibility and engagement for international audiences.

10. Advertising and Sponsored Content Ethics

Advertising revenue supports World News Studio’s operations, but ethical boundaries are critical to maintain editorial independence and audience trust.

10.1 Clear Distinction Between Editorial and Sponsored Content

  1. Labeling
    • Sponsored content, advertorials, and promotions must be clearly marked.
    • Labels must be conspicuous and understandable to global audiences.
  2. Editorial Independence
    • Advertisers and sponsors cannot influence editorial decisions.
    • Content must adhere to the same standards of accuracy, fairness, and impartiality as regular editorial content.

10.2 Ethical Advertising Practices

  1. Targeting and Audience Protection
    • Avoid exploiting vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, or financially disadvantaged groups.
    • Comply with regional restrictions on advertising sensitive products (e.g., alcohol, tobacco, gambling).
  2. Truthful Representation
    • Advertisements must be accurate, not misleading, and backed by verifiable claims.
  3. Global Compliance
    • Follow local advertising regulations:
      • US: FTC rules on truth-in-advertising.
      • EU: Directive 2005/29/EC on unfair commercial practices.
      • India: ASCI codes for ethical advertising.

10.3 Sponsorship Transparency

  1. Disclosure
    • All partnerships and sponsored campaigns must disclose the relationship to users.
    • Ensure users can differentiate between independent journalism and promotional content.
  2. Integrity of Sponsored Content
    • Sponsored articles or videos must not misrepresent facts or manipulate audiences.
    • Content should comply with the same ethical, legal, and cultural standards as editorial content.

11. Data Privacy and Security

World News Studio prioritizes user privacy, data protection, and cybersecurity, complying with global and local regulations.

11.1 Collection and Use of Data

  1. Minimal Data Collection
    • Collect only the data necessary for platform operations and personalized services.
  2. Informed Consent
    • Users must be clearly informed about the types of data collected and purposes of use.
    • Explicit opt-in consent is required for sensitive data collection (e.g., minors, EU users under GDPR).
  3. Global Compliance
    • GDPR (EU): Right to access, correction, erasure, and data portability.
    • CCPA (USA): Consumer rights to opt out of data sales.
    • DPDP Act (India): Protection of personal data and explicit consent for processing.

11.2 Data Security Measures

  1. Encryption and Storage
    • Implement robust encryption protocols for data in transit and at rest.
    • Use secure storage systems to prevent unauthorized access or data leaks.
  2. Access Control
    • Limit data access to authorized personnel only.
    • Audit and log all access to sensitive user information.
  3. Breach Notification
    • In case of a data breach, affected users and relevant authorities will be notified promptly, following legal requirements in respective jurisdictions.

11.3 User Rights and Transparency

  1. Rights Management
    • Users can access, correct, delete, or export their personal data.
    • Data requests will be addressed promptly, respecting jurisdiction-specific timelines (e.g., GDPR: 1 month).
  2. Privacy Policies
    • Clearly published and regularly updated privacy policies inform users of data practices, cookies, third-party sharing, and user rights.

12. Grievance Redressal Mechanism

A robust grievance redressal system ensures accountability and compliance with ethical and legal standards globally.

12.1 Accessibility

  1. Multi-Channel Support
    • Users can submit complaints via website forms, emails, and helplines.
    • Separate email IDs exist for specific queries: info, help, advertise, editor, privacy, complaints, copyrights.
  2. Multilingual Support
    • Provide assistance in multiple languages for global users.

12.2 Timely Resolution

  1. Acknowledgment
    • Complaints are acknowledged within 24 hours of submission.
  2. Investigation
    • All complaints are investigated thoroughly by the editorial or legal team.
    • Sensitive cases, such as privacy violations or defamation, receive priority.
  3. Resolution
    • Complaints are resolved within 15 business days whenever possible.
    • Users are informed of the outcome and any corrective actions taken.

12.3 Accountability and Documentation

  1. Record-Keeping
    • Maintain detailed records of complaints, investigations, and resolutions.
  2. Review and Improvement
    • Regular audits of grievance mechanisms identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with global digital media regulations.

12.4 Escalation Mechanisms

  1. Internal Escalation
    • Users may escalate unresolved complaints to senior editorial management.
  2. External Oversight
    • Where applicable, complaints may be referred to regulatory bodies or independent self-regulatory organizations in respective countries.
  3. Transparency Reports
    • Periodic transparency reports are published detailing complaint volumes, types, and resolution rates.

13. Training and Capacity Building

To maintain ethical, legally compliant, and high-quality journalism globally, World News Studio prioritizes comprehensive training and capacity building for all personnel.

13.1 Employee Training

  1. Ethical Journalism
    • All employees undergo mandatory induction programs on ethics, including accuracy, impartiality, fairness, and respect for privacy.
    • Training emphasizes the global-local approach: balancing international journalism standards with regional cultural and legal contexts.
  2. Legal Compliance
    • Employees learn relevant laws for their operational regions, including:
      • India: IT Act 2000, DPDP Act 2023, Press Council of India rules
      • EU: GDPR, AVMSD, ePrivacy Directive
      • US: COPPA, FTC advertising rules, ADA accessibility standards
      • UK: Data Protection Act 2018, Equality Act 2010
      • Middle East & Africa: Local media and content regulations
  3. Data Privacy and Security
    • Staff receive cybersecurity awareness training, secure data handling practices, and breach response protocols.
  4. Accessibility Training
    • Employees learn best practices for digital accessibility, including WCAG 2.1 guidelines and multilingual content creation.

13.2 Contributor Orientation

  1. Editorial Guidelines
    • Freelance contributors, guest writers, and multimedia specialists receive detailed editorial manuals.
    • Clear instructions on sourcing, verification, cultural sensitivity, and legal compliance are provided.
  2. Ethics and Conduct
    • Contributors must adhere to the same Code of Ethics as full-time employees.
    • Confidentiality agreements and copyright compliance are mandatory.
  3. Continuous Support
    • Editors provide ongoing feedback to ensure adherence to standards.
    • Contributors participate in periodic refresher workshops.

13.3 Public Awareness and Media Literacy

  1. Community Engagement
    • World News Studio runs awareness campaigns educating audiences about ethical journalism, fact-checking, and media literacy.
  2. Educational Initiatives
    • Collaborates with schools, universities, and NGOs to enhance understanding of responsible news consumption globally.

14. Monitoring, Auditing, and Compliance

14.1 Regular Monitoring

  1. Content Audits
    • Editorial and multimedia content undergo regular audits for accuracy, fairness, and compliance with legal frameworks.
    • Sensitive regions receive additional monitoring due to political, social, or cultural complexities.
  2. Social Media Monitoring
    • Automated and human oversight monitors platforms for misinformation, hate speech, or inappropriate user content.
    • Violations are flagged, reviewed, and addressed according to policy.
  3. Advertising Audits
    • Sponsored content and advertisements are periodically reviewed for truthfulness, ethical compliance, and transparency.

14.2 Internal Audits

  1. Data and Privacy Audits
    • Conducted periodically to ensure GDPR, DPDP, CCPA, and other privacy compliance.
  2. Legal Compliance Audits
    • Verify adherence to local laws, including copyright, media regulation, and accessibility standards.
  3. Ethical Audits
    • Independent ethical reviews assess the balance of content, cultural sensitivity, and inclusivity.

14.3 External Audits and Oversight

  1. Third-Party Auditors
    • Independent auditors review compliance with international standards, legal obligations, and ethical frameworks.
  2. Transparency Reporting
    • Periodic public reports document:
      • Complaint volumes and resolution
      • Editorial corrections and retractions
      • Accessibility improvements
      • Training and capacity-building initiatives

15. Enforcement and Accountability

15.1 Violation Handling

  1. Identification
    • Violations of the Code may include:
      • Inaccurate or misleading content
      • Breach of privacy or data protection rules
      • Discrimination or hate speech
      • Conflicts of interest or undue influence
  2. Investigation
    • A thorough investigation is conducted, ensuring fairness and impartiality.
    • Relevant stakeholders, including the Global Ethics Committee, participate in review.
  3. Disciplinary Action
    • Actions include warnings, suspension, termination, or legal proceedings depending on severity.
    • Contributors or partners may face contract termination or public disclosure of breaches.

15.2 Accountability Structures

  1. Global Ethics and Compliance Committee
    • Oversees enforcement, audits, and continuous review of the Code.
    • Reports directly to senior management to ensure independence.
  2. Editorial Leadership
    • Ensures day-to-day adherence to ethical standards across content teams.
    • Provides guidance on complex editorial dilemmas.
  3. User Feedback Integration
    • Feedback mechanisms allow users to participate in accountability by reporting content violations or ethical concerns.

16. Continuous Improvement

World News Studio embraces a philosophy of continuous learning and adaptation, ensuring ethical journalism remains robust in evolving digital landscapes.

16.1 Annual Review of the Code

  1. Content and Legal Updates
    • Annual revisions incorporate:
      • Changes in international and local laws
      • Emerging technology considerations (e.g., AI content, deepfakes)
      • Shifts in audience needs and global standards
  2. Stakeholder Input
    • Employees, contributors, users, and external auditors provide feedback for refinement.

16.2 Training Refreshers

  • All staff undergo annual refresher programs to reinforce ethical standards, legal compliance, and accessibility practices.
  • Scenario-based exercises simulate global reporting challenges, ensuring readiness for real-world application.

16.3 Technology and Innovation

  • Continuously implement advanced tools for verification, fact-checking, and content moderation.
  • Leverage AI responsibly, with disclosure of AI-assisted reporting where applicable.
  • Maintain strict safeguards to prevent algorithmic bias and misinformation propagation.

17. Closing Statements

World News Studio’s Global Code of Ethics represents a commitment to responsible journalism, legal compliance, cultural sensitivity, and global accessibility.

17.1 Key Commitments

  1. Truth and Accuracy: Every article, multimedia piece, and social media post adheres to rigorous verification standards.
  2. Editorial Independence: Decisions remain free from commercial, political, or personal influence.
  3. Global Legal Compliance: Adherence to Indian, EU, US, UK, Middle Eastern, and African laws ensures international integrity.
  4. Inclusivity and Accessibility: All audiences, including persons with disabilities, minors, and diverse cultural groups, are considered.
  5. Accountability: Transparent grievance mechanisms, audits, and disciplinary measures maintain public trust.
  6. Continuous Improvement: Annual reviews, training, and adoption of technology ensure relevance and effectiveness.

17.2 Ethical Commitment to Audiences

World News Studio empowers audiences worldwide by:

  • Providing accurate, balanced, and transparent news.
  • Respecting local customs, languages, and legal contexts.
  • Promoting media literacy, accessibility, and informed participation.
  • Safeguarding user privacy, data rights, and ethical interactions.

17.3 Legal and Operational Foundation

17.4 Conclusion

This Code of Ethics serves as the foundation for World News Studio’s global operations, ensuring every news item, article, and digital interaction reflects:

  • Integrity, fairness, and impartiality
  • Respect for cultural diversity and local legal frameworks
  • Protection of user rights and vulnerable populations
  • Transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement

By adhering to this Code, World News Studio upholds trust and credibility, delivering reliable, responsible, and ethical journalism to audiences worldwide.