The methods used by media representatives to obtain and disseminate statements from a student of this educational institution regarding the incident that occurred at "Idrak" Lyceum are absolutely unacceptable.
Modern.az reports that this was noted in a call addressed by the Press Council to media representatives.
It was noted that this is completely contrary to the "Rules of Ethical Conduct for Azerbaijani Journalists". Specifically, sub-clause 3.9 of the 3rd principle of the rules, titled "Protection of Honor and Dignity, Inviolability of Private Life", states that "journalists must not abuse the innocence and trust of children, respect their rights, demonstrate special responsibility in conveying their opinions, and strive not to interview children without the permission of their parents or legal guardians".
The call recalled that the aforementioned sub-clause also indicated that, except in cases where more important public interests exist, journalists should not publish information or photographs about children's private lives:
"Journalists must absolutely protect the identity of children who have suffered as a result of a tragedy or criminal act, or who have been involved in such incidents." Unfortunately, this was not adhered to in the presentation we are focusing on regarding the incident at "Idrak" Lyceum."
At the same time, it was brought to attention that the interview obtained by media representatives from a student of "Idrak" Lyceum, as well as their conduct during the interview, violated the requirement found in the 5th principle of the "Rules of Ethical Conduct for Azerbaijani Journalists", titled "Protection of the Journalist's and Their Organization's Reputation", which states that "the concept of 'public importance' should not be confused with information that is 'of interest to the public'".
"Their actions did not serve the purpose of uncovering the true facts related to the incident and cannot be considered an example of professional conduct adequate to the public attention given to the known event."
The Press Council of Azerbaijan called on journalists, especially when covering extreme situations, events that have caused resonance in society, and aspects related to such incidents, not to succumb to emotions, not to rush, and to act according to the specific essence:
"It should not be forgotten that sensitivity is the greatest criterion of professionalism, and only materials prepared by the media with high professional sensitivity are capable of meeting people's information needs. Any tendencies contrary to this are detrimental to society."
