Initiative for a New Ethical Code: Advancing Modern Media Standards

The creation of a new Ethical Code for journalists, designed to address the modern needs and challenges facing the media sector, was a key topic of discussion during the first consultative meeting held on November 9, 2024, in Sveti Nikole. The event gathered over 20 representatives from local and regional media, as well as correspondents from the Štip region. Journalists shared their thoughts and experiences, making valuable contributions to this initiative, which aims to unify the perspectives and recommendations of journalists from across the country.

The President of the Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM), Mladen Chadikovski, emphasized that the voice of media professionals is crucial in shaping policies that protect journalists’ rights and enhance professionalism in their work.

“We recognize that socio-economic issues are a constant concern for journalists, alongside the continuous improvement of ethical standards,” said Chadikovski, highlighting the importance of direct communication with local journalists.

Toni Mihailov, Regional Coordinator for the Štip Region, stressed the need to support local media and the importance of these discussions in finding sustainable solutions.

“We need to open discussions to prevent a situation where the public interest in local issues is overlooked,” Mihailov noted.

Mirče Adamčevski, a member of the working group for revising the Ethical Code, pointed out the significance of the current Code, which, despite being adopted in 2001, still holds practical relevance.

“The efforts of AJM, SEMM, and MIM in organizing these consultations are of great importance,” Adamčevski added, expressing gratitude for the support from the journalistic community.

Ognen Janeski highlighted the complexity of creating a new Ethical Code in an era of rapid technological advancements.

“Today’s challenges, including artificial intelligence and technological progress, are serious factors impacting the journalism profession,” Janeski stated.

The working group for amending the Ethical Code aims to lead the process of modernizing ethical standards in Macedonian journalism. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Council of Media Ethics of Macedonia (SEMM) and the Macedonian Institute for Media (MIM), will contribute to enhancing professional ethics and media accountability.

This activity is part of the media literacy project “Youth Think”, supported by USAID and IREX.