Policy on Sources
At Nepal News, our credibility rests on transparency, accuracy, and accountability in how we use and disclose our sources. Sources are the foundation of trustworthy journalism, and we aim to be as open as possible about where our information comes from—while safeguarding confidentiality whenever necessary. Our policy strikes a careful balance: protecting individuals who share sensitive information, while ensuring readers receive trustable, verifiable reporting.
This policy is designed to protect both our sources and our journalism. It ensures that Nepal News can break major stories, expose hidden truths, and hold power to account—while upholding the highest professional and ethical standards.
1. Protection of Sources
- Nepal News maintains a principle of absolute non-identification for confidential sources and stringers.
- Our source protection in the Investigative Journalism Bureau is based on anonymity, designed to ensure that sources can share information without fear of threats, retaliation, or legal risk.
- Some sources and methods are highly protected and remain undisclosed to maintain their effectiveness.
- The identity of confidential sources is always known to the Editor-in-Chief (and, where required, senior editors) to guarantee accountability inside the newsroom.
2. Confidential Sources
- Confidentiality is not automatic; it is granted only when the public interest clearly outweighs the risks.
- Reporters must first encourage sources to go on record. Named sources are always preferable.
- If anonymity is necessary, editors must approve its use after evaluating the source’s credibility, motives, and potential risks.
- Pseudonyms may only be used with full editorial approval, and readers must understand why a full name is not disclosed.
3. Verification and Attribution
- Critical information from confidential informants requires at least two independent sources or documentary evidence.
- Single-source stories may be published only with the approval of the managing editor or executive editor, and only if the source’s reliability is beyond doubt.
- Descriptions of unnamed sources should be specific but protective (e.g., “a senior official involved in the negotiations”), not vague terms like “an informed source.”
- Attribution is required for all outside material; plagiarism is prohibited.
4. Dealing with Sources
- Sources must be treated fairly and quoted in proper context.
- Public figures’ controversial remarks should be quoted in full, including the questions asked.
- Subjects of reporting should have a reasonable opportunity to respond.
- Sources cannot restrict Nepal News from conducting further verification.
- Anonymous sources must never be used for personal attacks, defamation, or unverified allegations.
5. Ground Rules for Interviews
- On the record: Default assumption; all comments may be quoted with name and attribution.
- On background: Information may be used but attributed in general terms (e.g., “a senior diplomat”).
- Deep background: Extremely rare; information may be included without attribution, but requires editor approval.
- Off the record: Information cannot be used or published. Reporters must clarify these distinctions before proceeding.
6. Expert and Citizen Sources
- We actively seek a diverse range of voices, including experts, citizens, and underrepresented groups.
- Ordinary citizens affected by events must be included alongside official and expert voices.
- Reporters must avoid overreliance on a narrow pool of sources to ensure balanced coverage.
7. Implementation and Oversight
Nepal News reporters and editors are required to:
- Rigorously verify all information, whether from named or unnamed sources.
- Clearly explain to readers why confidential sources are being trusted.
- Apply editorial oversight and ethical judgment in all sourcing decisions.
- Broaden networks to include varied expertise and lived experiences.
