Analysis of professional perceptions relating to the effectiveness of codes of ethics for journalists in Spain

Abstract

Purpose Codes of ethics are important instruments in journalism, as they promote transparency and self-regulation of media, in addition to monitoring the quality of information. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the perceptions that Spanish journalists have of the effectiveness of codes of ethics and to evaluate the different personal and professional variables which condition this vision. Design/methodology/approach The methodology used in the present study is based on quantitative content analysis using the survey technique. This technique makes it possible to obtain empirical data on various key aspects of the profession that are determining factors in ascertaining Spanish journalists’ views of one of the instruments of accountability that is external to the media: general ethical codes. Findings The results show that Spanish journalists are largely confident in the effectiveness of ethical codes in their profession. Likewise, it was seen that variables such as age, professional experience or the media with which they work influence the perceptions that professionals have of such instruments. Originality/value If understanding journalism as a profession whose mission is to guarantee the citizens their right to information, then it is essential to be familiar with the tools provided by the profession itself to be accountable to the public regarding this professional mission. Hence the importance of instruments of accountability and the perceptions of the professionals themselves regarding their effectiveness.

Knowledge and utilization of freedom of information law among journalists in Nigeria

“…A recent comparative study on journalism culture has found significant discrepancies in how journalists perceive FOI, what ethical principles guide their professional judgments, and the extent to which FOI affects them. The influence of FOI was found to be more noticeable in journalists with more age, professional experience, or the media with which they work, and these variables are believed to have influenced the perceptions of the journalists that had knowledge of such instruments as FOI (Mauri-Ríos et al, 2020). This shows that understanding FOI is an essential instrument in journalism, as it improves the quality of media information and is a precursor to FOI usage among journalists (Shehaj, 2018).…”

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Professional Variables and Staff Readiness to Utilise Internet-Based Channels for Research Communication in An Era of COVID-19

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