Achieving certification following ABC’s independent audit will demonstrate a media outlet’s commitment to delivering ethical, high-quality transparent journalism in compliance with the JTI standard.

JTI, developed by Reporters Without Borders, is an international standard for trustworthy journalism that focuses on the identity and transparency of media outlets and on professional standards and accountability mechanisms that govern their content production. The ultimate goal of JTI is to support the right to information by making it easier for citizens to identify reliable media.

Fiona O’Brien, Director of Reporters Without Borders UK Bureau said: “We will work hand in hand with ABC to help publishers embark on the certification process. The JTI standard can support and consolidate existing approaches to trust in news and media in the UK.”

Simon Redlich, Chief Executive of ABC added: “As an industry-owned auditor, our role has always been to strengthen trust in media by enabling companies to demonstrate their credibility in tangible ways. This aligns perfectly with the JTI’s aim to provide trustworthy journalism with a tool to clearly distinguish itself in our busy information space.”

To be awarded JTI certification, publishers must demonstrate they comply with 130 criteria points. As a first step, businesses can complete a free self-evaluation here which will provide a JTI transparency report. This self-evaluation helps media outlets prepare for the full audit needed to obtain JTI certification and identify areas for improvement.