Sesi 06 - Hukum dan Etika Jurnalistik (Bagian 3)

Summary

The transcript discusses essential journalistic ethics in Indonesia, focusing on principles like the 'right of refusal' (hak tolak), where journalists can protect their sources' identities to ensure safety, and the concept of 'embargo,' which delays the publication of information for public or national interest. It also highlights the importance of integrity, privacy, and avoiding prejudices or rumors in reporting. The script emphasizes the need for corrections and retractions when errors occur and underscores the public's right to respond to inaccurate reporting. Ultimately, it stresses the role of ethical oversight by the Press Council in upholding these standards.

Takeaways

• 😀 Journalists have the right to protect their sources and can refuse to disclose their identities to ensure their safety, even in the face of legal or police pressure.
• 😀 The concept of 'whistleblowing' is crucial, where individuals provide sensitive information that can endanger their lives, careers, or safety if their identity is revealed.
• 😀 The 'right to refuse' (hak tolak) allows journalists to maintain trust with their sources, as failure to protect sources may lead to a loss of credibility and sources in the future.
• 😀 Embargo refers to the delay in publishing or broadcasting certain news, as per the request of the source, until a specific time to ensure wider public interest and accuracy.
• 😀 Background information (informasi latar belakang) refers to confidential details that cannot be disclosed, often to protect the identity of the source.
• 😀 'Off the record' refers to information shared by a source that cannot be published but can help journalists understand the context of an issue better.
• 😀 Journalists must ensure that news is based on facts and not on assumptions or biases, as publishing unverified rumors or speculative content can harm reputations.
• 😀 The ethics of journalism prohibit discrimination and the demeaning of individuals or groups based on their social status, disabilities, race, or other personal characteristics.
• 😀 Journalists are required to respect the privacy of individuals, and they should only ask personal questions when relevant to the public interest.
• 😀 Corrections, retractions, and apologies are essential when a journalist publishes inaccurate or misleading information. Such actions should be done transparently and with integrity.
• 😀 Media outlets must provide opportunities for individuals or organizations to exercise their right to reply or correct information, ensuring fairness and accountability.

Q & A

What is the 'right to refuse' (hak tolak) in journalism?

The 'right to refuse' is a journalist's right to protect the identity and presence of their sources. It means that a journalist can refuse to reveal the identity of a source, especially in sensitive cases, to ensure the safety of the source and their family.

Why is the 'right to refuse' important in journalism?

It is essential because it builds trust between journalists and their sources. If journalists fail to protect their sources, people may stop sharing critical information, which could jeopardize the pursuit of justice in society.

What is 'embargo' in journalism?

An embargo is the postponement of the publication or broadcasting of news based on the request of a source. For example, a government official may ask journalists to withhold certain news until a specified time for official announcements.

Can an embargo be violated by a journalist?

Yes, violating an embargo can lead to the loss of trust from sources. If journalists break this agreement, they risk being cut off from future information, damaging their credibility and relationships.

What does 'background information' mean in journalism?

Background information refers to data provided by a source that is not attributed to a specific individual, often to clarify complex issues. Journalists may use such information without revealing the identity of the source to protect their safety or career.

What is meant by 'off the record'?

'Off the record' refers to information shared by a source during an exclusive conversation with a journalist, which cannot be published. This is often used to explain the context of a situation without disclosing specific details publicly.

What are the guidelines for using 'off the record' information?

Information shared 'off the record' must remain confidential and not be published. However, it only applies if the conversation is private and exclusive, not in public speeches or interviews attended by a wide audience.

What is the role of journalists in reporting biased or discriminatory news?

Journalists must avoid publishing news based on prejudice or discrimination. They should report facts accurately, ensuring they do not promote stereotypes or harm specific groups, whether based on class, disability, or race.

What should a journalist do when they make an error in their report?

A journalist should correct the mistake by issuing a retraction or correction, along with a public apology. This maintains the integrity of the media and ensures transparency, showing accountability for any errors.

What is the 'right to reply' and how should it be handled?

The 'right to reply' allows individuals or organizations to respond to a report they believe is inaccurate or harmful. Journalists must handle these replies proportionally, allowing the affected party to present their side or correct any misinformation.