The SPJ Code of Ethics states that ethical journalism is truthful, compassionate, independent and transparent. We need ethical journalism — and journalists who work each day with the profession’s highest standards in mind — for democracy and society to thrive.
The past few years have been unusual, to say the least. National and world events continue to keep the discussion of journalism ethics at the forefront. From reporting on elections to the Israel-Gaza conflict to navigating journalism’s unstable landscape, the SPJ Code of Ethics continues to be a guiding light to journalists worldwide. The Code doesn’t tell journalists to sugarcoat the news, but it guides journalists to consider the impact of the articles they write, the photos and videos they take and the words they use.
Explore this Ethics Week site to hear from SPJ members about how journalists apply the Code of Ethics to current events. Learn from members of the SPJ Professional Standards and Ethics Committee about “Why Ethics Matter.” Read recent articles about journalism ethics and disinformation. See examples of award-winning, ethical journalism — and much more.
We hope Ethics Week 2024 will not only help journalists in their endless pursuit of seeking truth and reporting it but that the public will gain a better understanding of what is ethical journalism, why it’s important and the lengths journalists go to ensure the information they are providing is truthful, minimizes harm, is independent, accountable and transparent.
Seek Truth and Report it
Ethical journalism should be accurate and fair. Journalists should be honest and courageous in gathering, reporting and interpreting information.
Minimize Harm
Ethical journalism treats sources, subjects, colleagues and members of the public as human beings deserving of respect.
Act Independently
The highest and primary obligation of ethical journalism is to serve the public.
Be Accountable And Transparent
Ethical journalism means taking responsibility for one's work and explaining one’s decisions to the public.
Click or tap on the Playlist icon ( 
) in the top right corner of the video player to see the full playlist of past Ethics Week webinars.
