WHO WE ARE
Accredited. Independent. International.
The Independent Press Gallery is an international, not-for-profit association representing accredited journalists, editors, and media organizations committed to independence, transparency, and truth.
We support a new generation of digital-first journalists working across borders and platforms. Our mission is to uphold professional standards, protect press freedom, and strengthen public trust in independent media.
Through accreditation, advocacy, and professional development, we provide members with the recognition, resources, and community needed to report freely and responsibly in a rapidly changing media landscape.
We believe journalism must remain free from political influence and financial dependence on government funding to serve the public interest with integrity and impartiality. The Independent Press Gallery stands as a neutral and credible body for journalists who value autonomy and accountability above all.
COUNTRIES
INDEPENDENCE
TRAINING HRS
MISSION
MISSION STATEMENT
Truth. Integrity. Independence.
Journalism exists to serve the public, to inform, to hold power accountable, and to preserve the record of truth. At the Independent Press Gallery, we believe these responsibilities can only be fulfilled through independence, transparency, and professional integrity.
The Code of Ethics and Conduct is our shared foundation. It sets the standards that guide members in their work across every platform, from traditional reporting to digital-first media.
In an era defined by instant communication, technological disruption, and growing pressure on free expression, this code serves as both a compass and a shield. It reminds us that the pursuit of truth must always outweigh the race to publish, and that ethical journalism is as much about how we gather information as it is about what we share.
Members of the Independent Press Gallery commit to these principles not as a formality, but as a professional pledge. By upholding this code, we protect not only the credibility of our own work, but the trust between journalists and the public we serve. Together, we stand for a free, independent, and responsible press.
our STORY
1955
IFJ’s Bordeaux Declaration
The “Bordeaux Declaration” sets the global benchmark for independent journalism, emphasising truth, freedom and independence from government or corporate control.
1993
The Proclamation of
World Press Freedom Day
The world marks press freedom as fundamental; independent journalism recognized as a global public good.
2007
The Rise of Citizen and Independent Digital Journalism
The digital era transforms journalism. Independent reporters and online platforms begin publishing groundbreaking investigations, proving that the free press can thrive outside institutional control.
2021
Formation of the
Independent Press Gallery
The Independent Press Gallery is founded, establishing a new standard of global accreditation and advocacy for journalists committed to independent, digital-first reporting.
CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT
1. Defend Press Freedom
Journalists shall uphold and protect the right to report freely, without interference, censorship, or coercion.
2. Seek Truth and Accuracy
All information must be verified to the best of a journalist’s ability. The urgency to publish must never override the responsibility to confirm facts, identify sources, and offer a fair opportunity to reply.
3. Correct Errors Transparently
Mistakes must be acknowledged and corrected promptly, clearly, and completely.
4. Distinguish Fact from Opinion
Journalists must clearly separate factual reporting from commentary, analysis, and advertising.
5. Act with Honesty
Information, images, and documents should be obtained by fair, lawful, and transparent means, except when responsible investigative work in the public interest requires alternative methods.
6. Respect Privacy and Dignity
Journalists must respect the privacy and dignity of individuals and show particular care when reporting on those who are vulnerable or inexperienced.
7. Protect Sources
Confidential sources must be protected at all times. Journalists have a duty to maintain professional secrecy regarding information shared in confidence.
8. Resist Undue Influence
Members must reject any pressure, inducement, or threat intended to distort or suppress truthful reporting. Privileged information must never be used for personal or financial gain.
9. Avoid Conflicts of Interest
Journalists must avoid or disclose situations that could compromise their independence, including relationships, sponsorships, or financial interests. They shall not blur the line between journalism and advertising or propaganda.
10. Reject Discrimination and Harm
No material should promote or enable hatred, prejudice, or discrimination based on race, gender, sexuality, religion, nationality, disability, age, or belief.
11. Respect for Children and Vulnerable Persons
Journalists should seek consent from a responsible adult when interviewing or photographing minors or vulnerable individuals about matters affecting their welfare.
12. Avoid Plagiarism and Misrepresentation
Work must be original, credited appropriately, and free from distortion, defamation, or falsification.
13. Uphold Professional Integrity
Journalists have the right to refuse assignments or authorship that violate their conscience or this Code. Within the bounds of the law, members recognize the authority of independent self-regulatory bodies, not government or political influence, in matters of professional ethics.
Email Us
info@independentpressgallery.ca
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LETTERMAIL
P.O Box 61046
Toronto RPO Eglinton/Duff
Ontario, M6E 5B2