Cambodia’s first “Charter for Professional Journalism” is designed to elevate journalistic ethics and standards across all forms of media, including content creators and those involved in make-money-online (MMO) activities. 

The groundbreaking framework, unveiled during an August 6 press conference at the Ministry of Information, aims to establish clear ethical guidelines for a broad spectrum of information disseminators in the country.

Comprising four chapters and 27 articles, the charter provides a robust structure to ensure a conducive environment for responsible journalism and promoting press freedom while safeguarding journalists' safety. 

“It sets minimum standards for disseminating information, ensuring truthfulness, fairness, impartiality and respect for the rights of others,” the ministry’s August 6 prakas states. 

With input from 325 journalists and senior members of the ministry, the charter was established and tailored specifically to the Cambodian context.

“This charter was crafted by journalists for journalists, truly serving the profession's interests,” information minister Neth Pheaktra stated, adding that “press freedom must operate within the bounds of the law”.

He said that the document underscores the ethical responsibilities of journalists, cautioning against the publication of discriminatory content or violations of individual privacy.

He added its objectives are to foster a practice of confident, efficient and responsible journalism. 

According to the ministry, the charter applies to all practitioners in the field of information and audio-visual media, including professional, online and non-partisan journalists, photojournalists, radio and television reporters, publishers, press units, journalists' associations and professionals in both traditional and new media.

“It also includes non-professional and citizen journalists, social media content creators, bloggers, vloggers and key opinion leaders (KOLs),” the prakas reads. 

Key terms defined in the charter include information, press, journalist, citizen journalist, unorganised journalist, photojournalist, professional journalist, press unit, electronic media, content producer, KOL, blog, artificial intelligence (AI), information security, traditional media, new media, association of journalists, social media, fake news, disinformation, malinformation, misinformation, publisher and printing house.

Journalists cover a press conference at Phnom Penh Municipal Hall. Hong Menea

It emphasises that press freedom must align with the Constitution, the Code of Professional Conduct and existing laws, particularly the Law on the Press. 

Serious professional violations are considered journalistic offenses, and media practitioners are reminded that press freedom does not exempt them from liability for deviating from these principles.

Minimum standards for professional activities are outlined, including respecting the Law on the Press and all legal documents of the ministry. 

Practitioners must present accurate information, avoid spreading fake news, disinformation, malinformation and misinformation, and correct any misrepresentation while maintaining source confidentiality.

Social accountability is a key principle, with media practitioners urged to prioritise beneficial information to society and avoid publishing content that affects peace, national security, public order, religious harmony, traditions and human rights. Independence and neutrality must be maintained to avoid conflicts of interest.

The charter ensures that journalists and media units registered with the ministry are entitled to social, legal and health protection, regardless of race, colour or political affiliation. 

Registered journalists and media units have the right to report freely across Cambodia, with duties including accessing information safely, respecting individual rights and dignity and promoting respect for traditions, customs and cultural heritage.

Media practitioners must respect privacy and dignity, protect societal interests, avoid unprofessional conduct and maintain independence.

Ung Bun Y, head of the Royal University of Phnom Penh’s Department of Media and Communications, highlighted the country’s urgent need for the charter, noting the previous lack of a well-defined framework for journalists.

“Establishing clear operational standards for journalistic ethics through rules and minimum standards is essential,” he told The Post. “It will serve as a crucial foundation for reinforcing ethical standards within the profession and will enhance its overall quality and value to the Kingdom.”

He reassured the public that the charter would not infringe upon freedom of expression, as it involves input from all stakeholders and aligns with global journalistic principles and legal requirements.

Chhort Bunthong, a researcher and philosopher at the Royal Academy of Cambodia (RAC), acknowledged the vital role of ethics in journalism, which he believes extend beyond legal frameworks.

“Journalists must prioritise truthfulness, discern right from wrong, understand their duties and know what actions are appropriate or inappropriate,” he said. 

He cautioned, however, against overly strict regulations, fearing they might hinder journalists' abilities to address social issues. 

Bunthong also emphasised the importance of complying with laws and professional standards to preserve the credibility of the profession.

Tep Asnarith, spokesperson for the ministry, highlighted the detrimental impact of disinformation, malinformation and misinformation, describing them as forms of social pollution that can lead to serious consequences. 

He criticised some social media content creators and those in the MMO sector for straying from ethical practices for publicity by violating social ethics and professional standards.

"In the past, the [ministry] has advised MMO content creators on social media to adhere to a code of conduct for disseminating information," Asnarith said. 

"This ensures that all kinds of factual information are of high quality and contribute to the fight against false information,” he told The Post. 

Asnarith said the ministry has also warned of the consequences of unethical propaganda, pornograph and displaying tragic images and violence without proper context.

The consultation process for the charter began in April, involving extensive stakeholder input through two major seminars attended by about 550 participants. 

Asnarith said public and private media reported on the events throughout the process, facilitating discussions, exchanges of views and proposals to promote the values of the journalistic profession in Cambodia.