Social Media Guidelines

At Nepal News, we recognize the power of social media in shaping conversations, amplifying journalism, and connecting directly with audiences. Platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok are valuable tools for reporting, engagement, and storytelling. At the same time, every post from our journalists and editors reflects on the reputation and credibility of Nepal News.

Nepal News embraces social media as a platform for journalism, transparency, and dialogue. We encourage creativity, authenticity, and innovation — but always within the framework of fairness, accuracy, and professionalism. Our journalists are representatives of the values that define Nepal News: credibility, responsibility, and the public’s trust.

Nepal News does not take responsibility for any personal social media posts made by its journalists or staff. All views, comments, or content shared on private accounts are solely their own and do not represent the position of Nepal News.

This policy guides the responsible use of social media. It ensures that our journalists can benefit from the opportunities of these platforms while safeguarding professional integrity, neutrality, and the trust of our readers.

1. Core Principles

• Journalists are free to use personal social media accounts, but their affiliation with Nepal News makes their activity publicly associated with the organization.
• Freedom of speech and expression is respected, but posts must not compromise the credibility, impartiality, or reputation of Nepal News.
• Social media is not mandatory for all staff, except for those whose roles specifically require online engagement.

2. Professional Standards

• Do not express partisan opinions, promote political agendas, or endorse candidates.
• Avoid offensive, defamatory, or discriminatory comments in any form.
• Treat all individuals with respect, even when responding to criticism.
• Corrections to inaccurate or inappropriate posts must be made transparently and quickly.

3. Use of Official Accounts

• All official Nepal News social media accounts are the sole property of the company.
• Content, revenue, and intellectual property generated from these accounts belong exclusively to Nepal News.
• The organization reserves the right to post or remove content from official accounts without prior notice to individual staff members.
• These rights remain valid even after the termination of employment.

4. Personal Accounts

• While personal accounts are independent, content that could reasonably be linked to Nepal News must align with professional journalistic standards.
• Journalists should avoid joining partisan or closed groups unless strictly for reporting purposes, with appropriate editorial oversight.
• Posts must not reveal internal editorial deliberations, confidential information, or unpublished content.

5. Engagement and Safety

• Journalists are encouraged to use social media to promote their reporting, share insights, and engage with readers thoughtfully.
• Aggressive, threatening, or abusive users may be muted or blocked — but not merely for criticism.
• Any serious threats to personal safety must be reported immediately to supervisors.

6. Publication Priorities

• Major stories, scoops, or exclusives should be published first on Nepal News platforms before being shared on social media, unless otherwise approved by editors.
• Live updates and real-time coverage should enhance — not replace — Nepal News’s primary digital platforms.

7. Accountability

• Chief Reporter, Desk Editors, and Department Heads are responsible for ensuring these guidelines are followed.
• Violations of this policy will be reflected in performance reviews and may lead to disciplinary action.
• This is a living document, updated regularly to reflect changes in digital platforms and newsroom needs.