We remain advocates of quality journalism

BY EDITOR

9th February 2016.

The Guardian has taken on a new format – beginning with this issue. We proudly celebrate the improvement in content and design, and promise our readers, advertisers and the larger public that we shall always think and act professionally.

 

We have been custodians of good journalism throughout the last two decades of our existence, and we promise to continue with that spirit by practising in line with journalism ethics and other socially acceptable considerations.

 

We shall always defend national and public interests because it is our firm belief that the country is much bigger and matters much more than any individual or institution. But we will do so aware that we are not angels but are only human and have our share of weak points.

Still, we know that our foibles cannot justify unprofessional conduct or practice. Therefore, whenever it so happens that there is clear evidence that we have gone wrong, we shall do the most we can to make amends.

 

We shall also endeavour to observe the law and extend unqualified respect to the public we shall strive to serve. We know that, despite the challenges we may face as citizens of a young democracy, we are by no means above the law.

 

Despite the facelift that we have undergone today, the core mission and values that have guided us since birth on January 11, 1995 remain intact.

 

These include promoting the ideals of democracy as the only acceptable basis for governance, and therefore reporting on the policies of the government in power in comparison with alternative views from opposition parties.

 

Others: defending observance of law and order, fearlessly defending truth, justice and fairness, and responsibly practising and supporting freedom of the press and editorial independence.

 

Yet others: helping to promote equality in society and recognising the role and experience of the elderly and people with disability, and respecting individual rights and freedom of worship.

 

Also: fighting corruption and other vices, and thus promoting observance of public morality and accountability.

 

Much like many other professions in our country, journalism is facing a number of daunting challenges including lack of well-trained journalists, a shrinking in the number of readers triggered by the digital revolution, sky-high running costs caused by problems with the economy, and draconian laws established during the one-party political system – the Cold War era.

 

Despite these challenges, though, The Guardian will not be a paper to settle political scores but an upmarket media outlet providing content hard to fault on any major score.

 

We shall always strive to offer constructive criticism where necessary by exposing those seeking to bury the truth for whatever reason other than compelling national interests. An American scholar once wrote: “We don’t go into journalism to be popular. It is our job to seek the truth and put constant pressure on our leaders until we get answers.”

We concur. Indeed, when piling pressure on those supposed to attend to issues with a bearing on our nation, we shall be guided by journalism ethics and moral values. 

 

When we do that those abhorring being told the truth shouldn’t see us as enemies.

 

Lastly, we know that our country has too few well-trained journalists than it needs. The Guardian Limited will partner with other key stakeholders, including local journalism universities and colleges, in addressing the problem through training.

 

That will serve as part of our thanksgiving to society for having steadfastly stood by us, particularly in our time of greatest need. We would appreciate public support in the endeavour. We wish all our readers, advertisers and well-wishers all the best.

SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN