Source protection, sometimes also referred to as source confidentiality or in the U.S. as the reporter’s privilege, is a right accorded to journalists under the laws of many countries, as well as under international law. … To mitigate these risks, journalists and sources often rely on encrypted messaging.
Are journalist sources protected by law?
A shield law is legislation designed to protect reporters’ privilege. This privilege involves the right of news reporters to refuse to testify as to information and/or sources of information obtained during the news gathering and dissemination process.
Should a journalist reveal their source?
A journalist may be required to reveal his/her sources only in exceptional circumstances, if it is needed to protect a vital interest. … The order to reveal a source should be made only by an investigative judge in criminal proceedings after careful consideration of all involved interests.
Do journalists have a constitutional right to gather information?
The First Amendment bars Congress from making any law abridging freedom of speech or of the press. These rights generally involve the dissemination of information, not the collection of it.
Is it illegal to own a shield?
States can enact shield laws ‘within First Amendment limits’
The high court made clear that the state legislatures, like the state courts, were free, “within First Amendment limits, to fashion their own standards” regarding a reporter’s privilege. … In California, the shield law is included in the state constitution.
What laws do journalists have to follow?
Of course every journalist needs to know about free speech laws! “Journalists Privilege,” also known as the “journalist shield law,” is the right not to be compelled to testify or disclose sources and information in court. Publishing something false and negative about a person could be considered defamation.
How are journalists protected?
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is a non-governmental organization that aims to “defend the right of journalists to report the news without fear of reprisal” and promote freedom of expression. The NGO monitors the imprisonment, disappearances and killings of journalists worldwide.
What are the rights of journalists?
Declaration of Rights of a Journalist
- Free access to all sources of information and the right to investigate without impediment anything that is in the public interest. …
- The right not to act in any way nor express any opinion that is contrary to professional rules or personal conscience.
What does using confidential sources risk in journalism?
Confidential sources provide information to journalists or other writers with the agreement that their identities will not be revealed in the reporting of the details that they have provided.