Trust depends on more than accuracy; it depends on how we behave. This Ethics Policy sets out the ethical commitments that govern Daily Watch Reports. It complements our Editorial Policy and Standards & Practices.
Independence
Our journalism serves readers — not advertisers, sponsors or political interests. Commercial and editorial functions are kept separate, and no outside party is given influence over, or advance sight of, our reporting. See Ownership & Funding for how this works in practice.
Conflicts of interest
We avoid situations where a personal, financial or political interest could compromise — or appear to compromise — our reporting. Anyone with a relevant conflict on a subject should not report on it, and material conflicts that cannot be avoided are disclosed to readers.
Gifts and inducements
We do not accept payment, gifts, favours or hospitality in exchange for coverage, and we do not allow the promise or withdrawal of advertising to shape editorial decisions.
Fairness and respect
We treat the subjects of our reporting fairly: we seek comment before publishing significant criticism, represent opposing views accurately, and take care not to cause gratuitous harm. We are mindful of the privacy of private individuals and weigh the public interest before publishing sensitive personal information.
Sources
We honour commitments made to sources and protect the identity of confidential sources who would face real risk if named. Anonymity is granted only where justified, never to enable anonymous attacks, and always with an editor’s knowledge — as set out in our Standards & Practices.
Originality and attribution
Plagiarism and fabrication are the most serious breaches in journalism. We do not invent quotes, sources or facts, and we credit the work of others when we draw on it.
Advertising and sponsored content
Advertising is always clearly distinguishable from editorial content. We do not disguise advertising as journalism; anything sponsored is clearly labelled.
Accountability
When we fall short of these standards, we acknowledge it and put it right through our Corrections process. Concerns can be raised at [email protected].