Abstract

The “Leidraad van de Raad voor de Journalistiek” describes which requirements journalism must meet and as such clarify to all – both inside and outside of the profession – what can be expected of proper journalists and proper journalism. It was created by the Press Council in the Netherlands, an independent body whose core task it is to provide a framework for self-regulation for the media and review complaints about journalistic conduct. According to the guidelines, proper journalism is truthful and meticulous, impartial and fair, verifiable and integer, and ethical.