Journalistic Ethics
Islamabad Desk's published policy and standards.
Accuracy and verification
We verify claims against primary sources — official statements, gazette notices, on-the-record interviews, and public records — before publishing. Where a claim cannot be verified, we say so plainly rather than presenting it as fact.
Sourcing and attribution
We attribute information to named sources wherever possible. Anonymous sources are used sparingly, only where a source faces real risk from being named, and only when the information is independently corroborated where practical.
Balance and fairness
Where a story involves a dispute, criticism, or a decision affecting named individuals or institutions, we seek comment from all relevant parties before publication and reflect their response fairly.
Independence
Islamabad Desk is not owned by, or funded by, any political party, government body, or entity with a direct interest in the outcomes we report on. Where a conflict of interest exists in a specific story, it will be disclosed within that story.
Corrections policy
When we get something wrong, we correct it — visibly, and as quickly as possible. Significant corrections are noted at the top of the corrected article along with the date of the correction. To report an error, contact us via the Contact page.
Interviews
Interview subjects are quoted based on a recorded or written record of the conversation. Quotes are not fabricated, and edits for length or clarity do not change the meaning of what was said.
Advertising and sponsored content
If Islamabad Desk publishes sponsored content in the future, it will be clearly labelled as such and kept separate from independent editorial coverage.