Transparency Standards
Conflict of Interest Policy
Loyalty to the Public. Transparency with the Profession.
At IPJA, we believe that journalistic credibility depends not only on what is reported - but on the integrity of those who report it. Our Conflict of Interest Policy ensures that members remain free from undue influence, disclose potential biases, and uphold the public's trust in their work.
This policy applies to all members, regardless of role, platform, or region.
What Constitutes a Conflict of Interest?
A conflict of interest arises when a journalist's personal, financial, political, or professional affiliations could compromise - or appear to compromise - their independence, objectivity, or fairness.
Examples include:
- Reporting on organizations or individuals with whom the journalist has a financial or familial relationship
- Accepting gifts, favours, or paid travel from sources, advertisers, or political entities
- Holding political office, campaign roles, or public relations contracts while working as a journalist
- Investing in companies or industries that one covers regularly
- Using one's journalistic platform to promote personal business interests
Member Responsibilities
- Disclose any actual or potential conflicts to your editor, employer, or IPJA's Ethics Council
- Recuse yourself from assignments where impartiality may be reasonably questioned
- Avoid dual roles that compromise editorial independence (e.g., PR consultant and reporter)
- Do not accept gifts, payments, or favours that could influence coverage
- Maintain a clear boundary between editorial and sponsored content
Enforcement & Review
- All members are required to sign a Conflict of Interest Declaration upon joining and renewing membership
- Suspected violations may be reviewed by the IPJA National Ethics Council
- Sanctions may include warnings, suspension, or termination of membership, depending on severity
"Transparency is not a burden - it is the foundation of trust."
Also see:
Full Ethical Guidelines