Editorial Policy
Last updated: June 2026
This Editorial Policy governs the journalistic standards of Harbinger Standard, an independent digital news publication focused on Africa.
1. Editorial Independence
Harbinger Standard is fully editorially independent. No article is influenced by advertisers, funders, governments, political parties, or other external parties. Editorial decisions are made solely by the editorial team.
2. Accuracy and Verification
All factual claims are verified against at least two independent, reliable sources before publication. Statistics are sourced from credible institutions. Unverified claims are labelled as such.
3. Source Transparency
Sources are identified wherever possible. Anonymous sources are used only where there is genuine public interest and a need for source protection, and are documented internally.
4. Separation of News and Opinion
News reports are strictly separated from opinion, commentary, and analysis. Opinion pieces are clearly labelled and reflect the named author's views.
5. Corrections
Errors are corrected promptly and transparently, with a dated correction notice appended to the affected article. Articles are never silently altered after publication.
6. Right of Reply
Subjects of critical reporting are given a reasonable opportunity to respond before publication.
7. Privacy
Reporting respects the privacy and personal rights of individuals. Private information is published only where clear public interest exists.
8. Conflicts of Interest
Journalists must disclose and recuse themselves from reporting where personal conflicts of interest exist.
9. Source Protection
Journalistic sources are protected to the fullest extent permitted by law.
10. AI Tools
AI-assisted content is subject to human editorial review and verification. AI is never used to fabricate quotes, sources, or events.