At Uzbek Corruption Watch, we are committed to responsible journalism, factual accuracy, fairness, and transparency.
Our editorial principles guide how we select, prepare, and publish information concerning corruption, governance, public institutions, and other matters of public interest.
1. Accuracy and Verification
Accuracy is central to our editorial standards.
We make reasonable efforts to verify factual information before publication and prioritize reliable, identifiable sources, including official records, public documents, credible reporting, and statements from relevant institutions.
Where information cannot be independently confirmed, we aim to communicate that limitation clearly.
We do not knowingly publish fabricated information or present speculation as established fact.
2. Fairness and Impartiality
We aim to report matters of public interest fairly and without unnecessary bias.
Our coverage seeks to distinguish facts from opinions, allegations from proven findings, and official statements from independently established information.
When reporting on disputes, accusations, or controversial matters, we consider relevant perspectives and the available evidence.
Our objective is to inform readers, not to determine guilt or innocence.
3. Reporting on Allegations
Corruption-related reporting requires particular care.
An allegation, investigation, criminal charge, and conviction are different legal circumstances and must not be treated as interchangeable.
We seek to accurately describe the status of proceedings and avoid language that implies guilt before it has been legally established.
Where appropriate and reasonably possible, individuals or organizations facing significant allegations should be given an opportunity to respond.
4. Sources and Attribution
We recognize the importance of clear sourcing and proper attribution.
Information obtained from government agencies, public records, research organizations, other publications, or third parties should be credited where appropriate.
We aim to provide readers with sufficient context to understand the origin and reliability of significant claims.
Anonymous sources may be considered when there is a legitimate public-interest reason to protect an individual’s identity. Such information requires careful assessment.
5. Editorial Independence
Our editorial goal is to serve the public interest.
News coverage and editorial judgments should not be improperly influenced by advertisers, sponsors, business relationships, political interests, or outside pressure.
Any sponsored or promotional material published on our platform should be clearly distinguished from editorial content.
6. Opinion and Analysis
News reporting, commentary, and analysis serve different purposes.
We aim to identify opinion-based material clearly and distinguish editorial interpretation from factual reporting.
Opinions expressed by individual contributors do not necessarily represent the position of Uzbek Corruption Watch.
7. Corrections and Updates
We recognize that mistakes can occur and that responsible journalism requires acknowledging and correcting them.
When a significant factual error is identified and confirmed, we aim to correct it promptly and transparently.
Material updates and corrections may be noted within the relevant article to ensure readers understand what has changed.
Readers can report potential inaccuracies through our Contact Us page.
8. Privacy and Public Interest
We respect personal privacy and recognize the importance of handling sensitive information responsibly.
Decisions concerning the publication of private or identifying information should consider its relevance, the public interest, and the potential consequences of disclosure.
We do not believe that public interest automatically justifies publishing every piece of personal information available.
9. Accountability to Readers
We welcome constructive feedback, factual corrections, and legitimate questions concerning our coverage.
Our responsibility is to provide readers with information that is as accurate, clear, and useful as reasonably possible.
These principles reflect our commitment to responsible reporting and to the public’s right to reliable information.