AJM WORKING MEETING TO STRENGTHEN JOURNALISTIC ETHICAL STANDARDS

The Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM) organized a meeting with journalists and media professionals from the AJM regional center in Strumica. The event brought together journalists and cameramen from local and regional media outlets in Veles and Strumica, who contributed to discussions on contemporary challenges and ethical standards in journalism, ahead of the development of a new Ethical Code.

Dragan Sekulovski emphasized the importance of debate and discussions on proposed changes and adaptations to the Journalists’ Ethical Code:
“This process is of great significance as it allows us to align our principles with the modern challenges of journalism, including rapid technological advancements and new forms of communication,” he stated.

Risto Tasev, coordinator of the AJM regional center in Strumica, highlighted the importance of direct communication with journalists in local communities, pointing out that the state of journalism in the region is concerning:
“We must continuously raise issues that are crucial for the journalistic community and the public interest at the local level, as well as emphasize the importance of adapting the journalistic code in line with the evolution of modern technologies,” Tasev noted.

Biljana Petkovska from MIM, a member of the working group for amending the Code, stressed the importance of the current Ethical Code, which was originally drafted in 2001. She pointed out that with the growth of digital media, new technologies, and artificial intelligence, it is only natural that certain provisions need to be adjusted:
“It is essential to emphasize that enhancing media literacy among citizens and applying professional and ethical journalism are equally important for ensuring quality public information.”

Sefer Tahiri, another member of the working group, underlined that improving journalistic standards is a critical topic. He stated that the goal of these discussions and the revision of the Code is to address the challenges posed by new media trends and digitalization:
“I believe that two of the most crucial aspects that should be included in the Code are the influence of politics and business interests on journalism. We rarely discuss these issues within our profession, but I think the time to address them is now.”

Ognen Janeski, President of the Council of Honor, pointed out that influence trading and artificial intelligence must be key topics in the revised Code:
“We must tackle these issues immediately. However, I also believe that we shouldn’t overload the Code with too many provisions, as this could make it an overly complex document and discourage its acceptance by the public.”

Leunora Kaliqi, President of the SEMM Board of Directors, emphasized that ethical standards are the foundation of public trust in the media and a cornerstone for preserving the integrity of journalism:
“In times of rapid technological change and constant challenges, it is crucial that ethical codes adapt to new realities without compromising their core values and the principles that define the profession. Strengthening these standards is an investment in the credibility of the media, their responsibility as guardians of truth and public interest, and their role as an unwavering pillar of democratic society.”

This meeting was part of a broader AJM initiative, conducted in collaboration with MIM and SEMM, to draft a new Journalists’ Ethical Code that reflects the dynamic changes in the media landscape. Journalists shared their thoughts, experiences, and recommendations, which will be integrated into proposals for the updated Code. Similar meetings will follow across other AJM regional centers, with the new Ethical Code expected to be finalized in the spring.