Corrections & Fact-Checking
Accuracy is key to responsible journalism. It is the aim of DemocraX to verify information prior to publishing, but sometimes mistakes occur. Where an error is found, we feel it is appropriate to give our audience a responsible correction.
Our correction policy rests on principles of accuracy, verification, transparency and accountability.
Our Correction Principles
How We Handle Errors
Where a potential error is called to our attention or we identify one ourselves, we review the related information and evidence.
As appropriate, we:
The proper course of action depends on the nature, significance and consequences of the problem.
We will not change anything already published solely because people disagree with our editorial point of view. We make corrections in cases where a factual, contextual or other material problem exists.
Reporting a Possible Error
If you think that an article in DemocraX contains an error, please get in touch using our Contact Us page.
You will need to provide:
- Article name or URL
- The statement/section you think is wrong
- Your explanation for why it is wrong
- Proof that supports your claim
- Any information about the context of the issue which may be helpful in assessing it
Reports that have evidence will assist us in dealing with any issue raised.
Correction and Updates
Where a material correction is made, we will provide a note or indication of what the correction is, especially if the information provided in the article would have led to a material misrepresentation by readers.
An update is made when new information is added to the article. An update does not necessarily mean a correction; it could mean adding new information, but still maintaining previous correct information.
Correction
A correction addresses a factual, contextual or other material problem in previously published content.
Update
An update adds new information or clarification while previous correct information may remain unchanged.
Publication and updates should have accurate dates and we should not just change dates to make earlier published content seem to have been newly published.
Fact-Checking
Fact checking entails the evaluation of certain factual assertions against available evidence.
Based on the subject matter, our fact-checking process may involve:
Sources and evidences need to be evaluated based on their relevance, reliability and proximity to the assertion.
In situations where a claim cannot be verified with confidence, we may qualify the claim rather than give it out as fact.
Accountability
We think responsible journalism involves acknowledging any mistake rather than cover them up.
This is informed by the journalism ethics which require journalists to own up to their mistakes, update facts and make corrections where necessary.
In case you have concerns about accuracy, kindly let us know at DemocraX . Your claim will be evaluated based on available evidence.