Editorial Standards and Policies

Full version: Download PDF | Last updated: January 1, 2026

Core Principles

We are committed to accuracy in all that we publish.

Verify before publishing. Use original sources whenever possible.
Provide context. Facts without context can mislead.
Distinguish fact from analysis. Clearly separate verified facts from interpretation.
Hold power accountable. We prioritize stories exposing wrongdoing by those with power.

We balance the public’s need for information against potential harm to individuals.

Respect privacy rights. Private individuals have greater privacy interests than public figures.
Consider vulnerable subjects. Exercise heightened sensitivity with victims and minors.
Avoid sensationalism. Present serious matters with appropriate gravity.

Our primary obligation is to the public.

Maintain editorial independence. No funder or external party has input into editorial decisions.
Avoid conflicts of interest. Disclose any unavoidable conflicts.
Refuse gifts and special treatment.

We explain our processes and correct our errors.

Publish our standards. These policies are publicly available.
Explain our methods. Describe how information was gathered and verified.
Correct errors promptly. Mistakes are corrected fully, quickly, and prominently.

Before publishing any story that portrays an individual or organization in a negative light, we provide a meaningful opportunity to respond.

Minimum effort: At least five documented attempts through multiple channels.

Timing:

Documentation: We log all contact attempts with date, time, method, and outcome.

We correct errors promptly, fully, and transparently.

We do not unpublish articles except in extraordinary circumstances.

Documentary evidence prioritized: Government records, court filings, corporate disclosures, contemporaneous documents.

Two-source rule: Controversial claims require at least two independent sources.

Anonymous sources: Used rarely, only when information is vital and unavailable on-record.

Questions about our editorial policies: contact@transparencycascade.org