ASJF’s Code of Ethics and Neutrality establishes the professional principles expected of sports journalists and media professionals associated with the Federation. It is designed to protect accuracy, independence, fairness, public trust and the integrity of sports journalism.
Core principles
Accuracy and verification
Journalists should verify information before publication, distinguish confirmed facts from allegations or opinion, use reliable sources, provide appropriate context and correct significant errors promptly and transparently.
Editorial independence
Reporting and editorial decisions should be made independently of political, commercial, personal, sporting or organizational pressure. Membership in ASJF must never be used to secure favorable coverage or suppress legitimate journalism.
Fairness and right of reply
Coverage should represent people and organizations fairly. When serious criticism or allegations are reported, reasonable efforts should be made to obtain a response from the person or organization concerned.
Neutrality and conflicts of interest
Journalists should avoid activities, payments, gifts, relationships or commitments that could compromise—or reasonably appear to compromise—their professional independence. Any unavoidable conflict relevant to a report should be disclosed appropriately.
Separation of journalism and promotion
Advertising, sponsorship, public relations and promotional material should not be presented as independent journalism. Sponsored or paid content should be clearly identified.
Respect, dignity and non-discrimination
Sports journalism should respect human dignity and avoid discriminatory treatment based on gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, disability, age or other personal characteristics. Particular care should be taken when reporting on children, survivors of abuse and people in vulnerable situations.
Images, quotations and digital content
Photographs, video, audio, quotations and digital material should not be manipulated or presented in a misleading way. AI-assisted or synthetic material must not be used to fabricate facts, sources, quotations or evidence.
Responsible use of social media
The same standards of accuracy, fairness and professional conduct apply to journalists’ work on digital and social platforms. Unverified claims should not be amplified merely because they are trending or widely shared.
Accountability
ASJF members are expected to uphold these principles in their professional work. Concerns about serious ethical breaches may be submitted to the Federation for appropriate review under its statutes, internal procedures and applicable law. Any review should respect fairness, confidentiality and the right of the member concerned to respond.