Humanity and ethics in journalism discussed

Ethics and guidelines can exist, but it is up to the individual to choose whether or not to follow them

Senior journalists, legal practitioners and human rights activists yesterday highlighted the importance of journalists adhering to a code of ethics and adopting selfregulation, pointing out that this would be a much more acceptable option as opposed to being bound by laws and regulations, which would follow if self-regulation was

not adhered to by media.

These views were expressed yesterday during a panel discussion on ‘Humanity and ethics as journalists/professionals’ held at the Sri Lanka Press Institute, in the wake of debates emerging within the country concerning media ethics and the recently drafted media code of ethics due to be adopted in September.

The discussions were mainly centred on the media portrayal of the self-immolation of a monk on Vesak Poya and the ethical concerns that rose following its coverage.

Speaking at the discussion, Editor of the Nation newspaper Malinda Senevirathne said, irrespective of guidelines or a code governing media, its success is eventually boiled down to an individual choice. “Ethics and guidelines can exist, but it is up to the individual to choose whether or not to follow them,” he said.

News consultant for Daily Mirror M.S.M. Ayub who was also on the panel emphasized the importance of creating journalists with a conscience. “Presently there are various versions of the code of ethics adopted by both print and electronic media but the priority should be given in regulating and ensuring its implementation and not on introducing a new set of ethics.”