Assessing the Practice of Professional code of Ethics in Journalism Profession: A Case Study of Oromia Broadcasting Network (OBN).
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2024-06-09
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study has evaluated the adherence to ethical journalism principles at the Oromia Broadcasting Network (OBN) focusing on accuracy, fairness, objectivity and accountability among others. It also tries to identify challenges OBN journalists face in maintaining these standards and suggests relevant training and enhanced editorial independence. Key questions in the study include the impact of insufficient training and lack of relevant knowledge on ethical practices and the influence of external bodies on journalistic objectivity. Using qualitative content analysis the Researcher examined 51 news stories aired from late November 2023, to February 2024 and conducted interviews with OBN reporters, editors and management member. This focused period allows for a close look at the OBN‟s coverage during that specific timeframe. To assess and find out the extent of journalistic professional practices, the research has attempted to analyze and interpret the selected news items presented with in the mentioned period of time. Three OBN reporters, two editors and one management member of the Institution have been interviewed. As the finding of the study has indicated most of the news production and presentation made by the state owned media in Ethiopian in general and the Oromia Broadcasting Network in particular, do not comply with the set professional quality and standards. Several limitations have been witnessed regarding meeting the professional codes of ethics in news reporting, production and selection of sources among others. Bias, subjectivity, focusing only on success and positive stories, dependency, impartiality, plagiarism and not giving due attention to the truth are the major problems observed in the media house under the study in this regard. In general, findings revealed significance shortcomings in meeting professional ethical standards including bias, subjectivity, and a lack of focus on truth. The study has indicated recommendations for improving journalistic practices at the Oromia Broadcasting Network based on the findings