JTI REPORT

Report Date: September 27, 2026

Zerqiva

Section A: Identity and Transparency

Basic Requirements on Media’s Identity
1.1. Legal Entity Name
1. What is the Legal Entity Name?
Zerqiva
1.2. Contact Details and Identifiers
2. What is the postal address for the Legal Entity?
Jl. Siliwangi No 19, Kab. Sukabumi, West Java 43357, Indonesia
ADDRESS LINE 1
Jl. Siliwangi No 19, RT 01/RW 02
ADDRESS LINE 2
Kelurahan Sundawenag, Kecamatan Parung Kuda
POST CODE
43357
CITY
Kab. Sukabumi
STATE / PROVINCE / REGION
West Java
COUNTRY
Indonesia
3. What is the general telephone number for the Legal Entity?
+62 851-7788-4493
4. What is the email address for the Legal Entity?
5. Is the Legal Entity required to have a Tax ID, a Registration ID, a DUNS number and/or other identifiers?
No
6. Are there any other governmental or other identifiers that a certification body could use to verify the identity of the Legal Entity?
No
1.3. Description of Media Outlet
7. What Brand Name(s), titles, publication names, etc. do you use to publish Content?
Zerqiva
1.4. Distribution Channels and URLs
8. Does the Media Outlet publish on any URLs?
Yes
8.a. On what URLs do you publish?
  • https://zerqiva.com/
9. Does the Media Outlet publish any content on any social media?
Yes
9.a. What are the social media URLs, handles, addresses or names that you use to publish?
  • https://x.com/zerqivacom
10. Does the Media Outlet publish any content by broadcasting and/or streaming?
No
1.5. Safety Concerns
11. Do the Media Outlet's Editorial Guidelines state that the safety of all journalists shall be treated as a primary concern?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Zerqiva is committed to the safety and well-being of all journalists, contributors, and staff, including digital safety and cybersecurity. Our editorial guidelines treat the protection of editorial personnel as a primary concern in all reporting activities. We do not compromise the safety of our team for any story.
12. Are there any reasons that the Media Outlet has for withholding information on any of the questions as part of this JTI Standard process?
No
1.6. Location
13. Is the physical address of the Legal Entity different from the postal address according to question no. 2?
No
14. Do you have a safety-related reason for not providing it?
No
1.7. Founding Date
15. What is the founding date of the Legal Entity?
2025-01-01
If you want to publish additional information on the founding history, please provide it here.
Zerqiva was founded in 2025 as an independent online news outlet. It operates as a digital media platform covering global news, with a commitment to transparency and editorial integrity.
16. Is the founding date of the Media Outlet (as in clause 1.3. question no. 7) different from that of the Legal Entity (as in clause 1.1. question no. 1)?
No
Editorial Mission
2.1. Editorial Mission Statement
17. Does your Media Outlet have an editorial mission statement, or stated set of principles or editorial values?
Yes
17.a. Provide that statement here
Zerqiva is an independent online news outlet committed to delivering accurate, timely, and trustworthy information to a global audience. Our editorial mission is to inform the public with factual reporting and in-depth analysis across politics, economy, technology, sports, health, and the environment.
18. Is that statement posted online?
Yes
18.a. What is the URL where it is published?
https://zerqiva.com/about
Public Service Media
3.1. Public Service Media Mission, Governance and Independence
19. Is the Media Outlet a Public Service Media?
No
Disclosure of Type of Ownership
4.1. Privately held
20. Is the Media Outlet or the Legal Entity privately owned?
Yes
20.a. What is the form and status of the Media Outlet or Legal Entity according to the legal definition in the country of registration?
Individual/sole proprietorship, unregistered, based in Indonesia.
4.2. State or Publicly owned
21. Is the Media Outlet or the Legal Entity owned by the state, a unit of the government or any other public entity?
No
4.3. Publicly Traded Company
22. Is the Media Outlet or the Legal Entity publicly traded?
No
4.4. Other
23. Is the ownership of the Media Outlet or the Legal Entity different from the three previous clauses in this section? For example, is it a co-operative or member-owned?
No
Requirements on Owners’ Identity
5.1. Names of Owners and Board Members
24. What are the names of all direct, indirect or beneficial owners?
Andi, sole owner (100%)
25. Are the names of the owners in the previous question available online?
No
26. What are the names of the members of supervisory boards?
None — Zerqiva does not have a supervisory board.
27. Are the names of the members of the supervisory board members in the previous question available online?
No
28. Are the listed owners also founders or owners of other companies?
No
29. Are any of the owners active members of a political party or movement or candidates in a political election or current office holders?
No
5.2. Contact Details of Direct and Indirect Owners
30. What is the contact information for all direct and indirect owners?
Name: Andi
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +62 851-7788-4493
Address: Jl. Siliwangi No. 19, Sukabumi, Jawa Barat 43357, Indonesia
31. Is the contact information in the previous question available online?
No
32. What is the contact information for the members of the board of directors?
Not applicable — Zerqiva does not have a board of directors.
33. Is the contact information in the previous question available online?
No
5.3. Names of Shareholders
34. What are the names of the direct, majority or controlling shareholders? (If shareholders are companies, list the main activity and business sector of that company along with the name.)
Andi — sole shareholder (100%)
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Zerqiva is an independent online news outlet wholly owned and operated by its founder. There are no external shareholders, investors, or parent companies. The owner maintains full editorial and operational control of the media outlet.
5.4. Percentage of Shareholdings
35. List the shareholders and the percentage of the holdings.
Andi — 100%
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
The owner holds 100% of the shares of Zerqiva. There are no minority shareholders, external investors, or corporate shareholders involved in the ownership structure.
5.5. Exception for Member-owned Media Outlets
36. Is the Media Outlet member-owned?
No
Disclosure of Identity of the Management Team and its Location
6.1. Management Directory
37. What are the names, positions, and contact details of all members of management for the Media Outlet?
Name: Andi
Position: Founder, Owner
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +62 851-7788-4493
Address: Jl. Siliwangi No. 19, Sukabumi, Jawa Barat 43357, Indonesia
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Zerqiva is managed by its founder, who holds the roles of Owner and Editor-in-Chief. No additional management positions currently exist. To ensure editorial independence, the Owner does not interfere with editorial decisions, as stated in Section 11 of our Editorial Standards.
6.2. Location of Branches and Offices
38. What is the physical address, phone number and email address of the headquarters of the Media Outlet?
Address: Jl. Siliwangi No. 19, RT 01/RW 02, Kelurahan Sundawenag, Kecamatan Parung Kuda, Sukabumi, Jawa Barat 43357, Indonesia
Phone: +62 851-7788-4493
Email: [email protected]
39. Does the Media Outlet have other main branches and offices?
No
40. Do you have a safety-related reason for not providing it?
No
Disclosure of Editorial Contact Details
7.1. Social Media
41. Does the Media Outlet have social media accounts for the public to use to make queries or respond to Content?
Yes
41.a. What are the URLs or other identification of all social media accounts used by members of the public to contact the Media Outlet?
  • https://x.com/zerqivacom
7.2. Newsroom Contact Details
42. Does the Media Outlet have a person responsible for dealing with communication from the public regarding the Content?
Yes
43. Is the method for contacting that person or others at the Media Outlet clearly visible to the public?
Yes
44. In what ways does the staff of the Media Outlet responsible for the Content communicate back to the public results of queries, concerns, etc.?
Zerqiva responds to public queries, concerns, and feedback through the following channels:

1. Email — via the official contact email published on our website.
2. Contact form — available on the Contact page of zerqiva.com.
3. Social media — through direct messages and public replies on our official X (Twitter) account.
4. Corrections and clarifications — published on the website when necessary.
7.3. Customer Service Contact Details
45. Does the Media Outlet have a department or a single person who is responsible for customer service?
Yes
45.a. What are the contact details, including telephone numbers, email addresses, correspondence addresses, for customer service or the equivalent within the Media Outlet?
Name: Andi
Position: Owner & Customer Service Contact
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +62 851-7788-4493
Correspondence Address: Jl. Siliwangi No. 19, Sukabumi, Jawa Barat 43357, Indonesia
Disclosure of Revenue Sources and Data Collection
8.1. Sources of Revenue
46. What are the categories of sources of revenue for the Media Outlet, ranked from largest to smallest? These may include subscriptions, advertising, major donors, donations, subsidies, fees, sales, memberships, sponsorships, events, etc.
1. Owner's funding / self-funded 2. Advertising (planned) 3. Donations (planned)
47. Is the Media Outlet required to make financial disclosures?
No
48. What is the revenue of the Media Outlet?
No revenue yet — Zerqiva is currently self-funded and has not generated revenue.
49. What is the ratio of the categories of revenue sources (as in question no. 46)?
1. Owner's funding — 100%
2. Advertising — 0%
3. Donations — 0%
4. Sponsorships — 0%
50. Is there any reason for safety and security that you have given incomplete data in this section?
No
8.2. Data collection disclosure
51. Does your Media Outlet process any personal information from online visitors on its own or with third parties?
Yes
51.a. What information is processed?
Zerqiva processes the following personal information from online visitors:

1. Analytics data — IP address, browser type, device type, pages visited, and time spent on the site (via Google Analytics or similar tools).
2. Contact information — name and email address submitted voluntarily through the contact form or by email.
3. Cookies — used for website functionality, analytics, and advertising purposes.
4. Social media interactions — when visitors contact us via social media platforms.
51.b. What is the purpose for gathering that information?
Zerqiva gathers this information for the following purposes:

1. Website analytics — to understand how visitors use the site, improve content, and enhance user experience.
2. Communication — to respond to queries, feedback, and requests submitted by the public.
3. Site functionality — to ensure the website works properly and securely.
4. Advertising — to display relevant ads and measure their performance (if applicable).
5. Legal compliance — to meet applicable data protection and privacy regulations.
51.c. By what methods is the information processed?
Zerqiva processes personal information through the following methods:

1. Automated collection — via cookies, web beacons, and analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) that automatically collect data when visitors browse the website.
2. Voluntary submission — via contact forms, email, or social media messages where visitors provide their information directly.
3. Storage and analysis — data is stored securely on servers and analyzed using analytics platforms to generate reports on website performance.
4. Third-party processing — data may be processed by third-party service providers (such as Google Analytics) in accordance with their own privacy policies.

Section B: Professionalism and Accountability

Accountability for Journalism Principles
9.1 Editorial Guidelines
52. Does your Media Outlet have a set of guidelines, or adhere to an external set of guidelines, for journalistic content, distribution and conduct to which its journalistic operations comply?
Yes
52.a. Are they made available to the public in a readily accessible form?
Yes
52.a.i. What is the URL?
https://zerqiva.com/editorial-standards
53. Is there a person or a group of persons responsible for these guidelines clearly identified?
Yes
53.a. Is that identification visible on the page with the guidelines?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
The editorial guidelines are overseen by the Owner and Editor-in-Chief of Zerqiva, whose name and contact information are published on the Editorial Standards page. This ensures clear accountability for all editorial decisions and compliance with our journalistic principles.
9.2. Purpose of Guidelines
54. Do the guidelines referred to in the section on Editorial Guidelines set clear expectations for the behaviour for all the contributors, including editorial staff (journalists, editors) and all other contributors?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our Editorial Standards set clear expectations for the behaviour of all contributors, including journalists, editors, freelance writers, and columnists. These expectations cover accuracy, fairness, independence, conflict-of-interest disclosure, respect for sources, protection of confidentiality, and compliance with ethical and legal standards. Violations may result in disciplinary action.
55. Do the guidelines referred to in the section on Editorial Guidelines make clear the structure of editorial responsibility for each stage of the publication process within the organisation?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our Editorial Standards clearly define the structure of editorial responsibility at every stage of the publication process — from content planning and writing, through fact verification and final approval, to publication, corrections, and public response. The Editor-in-Chief holds final responsibility for all editorial content, while individual contributors are accountable for the accuracy and integrity of their work.
9.3. Guidelines and Journalism Principles
56. Do your Editorial Guidelines include requirements for Accuracy (as prescribed in the Preamble) in your output?
Yes
What is the URL?
https://zerqiva.com/editorial-standards
57. Do they include requirements for Independence (as prescribed in the Preamble) of editorial decision making?
Yes
What is the URL?
https://zerqiva.com/editorial-standards
58. Do they include requirements of Fairness (as prescribed in the Preamble) in the practice of journalism?
Yes
What is the URL?
https://zerqiva.com/editorial-standards
59. Do they include requirements for Accountability (as prescribed in the Preamble) in the practice of its journalism?
Yes
What is the URL?
https://zerqiva.com/editorial-standards
9.4. Conflicts of Interest
60. Do your Editorial Guidelines include protections against real, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our Editorial Standards include explicit protections against real, potential, and perceived conflicts of interest. Section 10 requires all contributors to disclose personal, financial, political, or professional relationships that could influence reporting, avoid gifts or favors from sources, recuse themselves from stories where they have a stake, and declare external affiliations. The Editor-in-Chief reviews all disclosures and takes appropriate action.
61. Do the guidelines include guidance on how to deal with conflicts related to business?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our Editorial Standards include clear guidelines for handling business-related conflicts. Section 11 covers editorial independence from advertisers, clear labelling of sponsored content, separation of business and editorial operations, disclosure of financial interests, prohibition of gifts or favours from business partners, and non-interference by the owner or investors in editorial decisions.
62. Do the guidelines include guidance on how to deal with conflicts related to political interests?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our Editorial Standards include clear guidelines for handling political conflicts. Section 12 covers political neutrality, disclosure of political affiliations, recusal from political coverage, balanced election coverage, protection from political pressure, and non-interference by the owner or investors in political coverage.
63. Do the guidelines include guidance on how to deal with conflicts related to personal interests?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our Editorial Standards include clear guidelines for handling personal conflicts. Section 13 covers family and personal relationships, disclosure of personal relationships, prohibition of personal gain, prohibition of personal grudges, disclosure of organizational roles, and recusal from related stories.
64. Does the Media Outlet’s structure protect the editorial processes from any undue influence from within or without?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our editorial structure protects the editorial process from undue influence, both internal and external. Section 2 (Independence) ensures editorial decisions are free from political, commercial, or external influence. Section 7 keeps editorial content separate from commercial content. Sections 10–13 require disclosure of conflicts and recusal where necessary. Section 11 explicitly states that the owner and investors do not interfere with editorial decisions.
Accuracy
10.1. Processes for Ensuring Accuracy
65. Do you have internal rules and a systematic editorial process to ensure the accuracy of your content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Zerqiva has internal rules and a systematic editorial process to ensure accuracy. Section 1 requires verification of every story through reliable sources before publication. Section 9 (Editorial Responsibility Structure) defines a multi-stage process: content planning, writing and reporting, fact verification, final approval by the Editor-in-Chief, publication, and corrections. Section 5 ensures errors are corrected promptly and transparently.
66. Do you have internal rules and a systematic editorial process to ensure that the Editorial Guidelines are adhered to?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Zerqiva has internal rules and a systematic editorial process to ensure the Editorial Guidelines are adhered to. Section 8 states that violations may result in disciplinary action. Section 9 defines a multi-stage approval process, with the Editor-in-Chief holding final responsibility for all published content and oversight of corrections. Sections 10–13 require disclosure of conflicts and action by the Editor-in-Chief. The Responsible Party section identifies the Owner and Editor-in-Chief as the person overseeing compliance.
67. Do you have a verification process for content and the role of editorial oversight?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Zerqiva has a clear verification process for content and defined editorial oversight. Section 1 requires every story to be verified through reliable sources before publication. Section 9 (Editorial Responsibility Structure) defines the roles: the editorial team verifies all facts, sources, and claims, and the Editor-in-Chief holds final responsibility for approving all content before it is published.
10.2. Process Review
68. Do you have a mechanism for periodic review of the effectiveness of the implementation of your Editorial Guidelines in your editorial processes?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Zerqiva has a mechanism for periodic review of the effectiveness of its Editorial Guidelines. Section 14 requires that the guidelines are reviewed at least once every 12 months, or sooner if significant changes occur. The Editor-in-Chief evaluates their implementation, collects feedback from contributors, and makes updates as needed.
69. Is your accountability mechanism (internal or external) subject to periodic review?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our accountability mechanism is subject to periodic review. Section 14 of our Editorial Standards requires a review at least once every 12 months, or sooner if significant changes occur. The Editor-in-Chief evaluates the effectiveness of our accountability processes (including corrections, editorial oversight, and conflict-of-interest handling) and makes updates as needed. A record of reviews is maintained.
10.3. Statistics and External Content
70. Do your Editorial Guidelines require that statistics should be sourced and verified?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our Editorial Standards require that statistics used in reporting are properly sourced and verified. Section 15 mandates clear attribution to named sources, verification against original sources, disclosure of methodology, preference for primary sources, prohibition of manipulation, and sufficient context to avoid misinterpretation.
71. Do your Editorial Guidelines require that external photographs/video/audio content should be sourced and verified?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Our Editorial Standards require that external photographs, videos, and audio content are properly sourced and verified. Section 16 mandates clear attribution to named sources, verification of authenticity, respect for rights and permissions, contextual accuracy, preference for primary sources, and verification of metadata.
10.4. Identification of Journalists, Agencies
72. Are the Individual Journalists (including external sources) identified, for example through a byline, or recorded in publishing mechanism so that this information can be accessed?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, individual journalists and external contributors are identified through bylines on all published articles. Each contributor has an author page on our website listing their published work. Internal records of authorship, editorial review, and approval are maintained. Section 17 of our Editorial Standards formalizes this commitment.
73. Is all News Agency material used by the Media Outlet recorded and tracked?
Yes
10.5. Location Reporting
74. Is location reporting identified in your content?
Yes
75. Do your Editorial Guidelines ensure that any constraint on location reporting be explained in the report or in the context of its publication?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards ensure that any constraint on location reporting is explained to readers. Section 20 requires that if a journalist cannot report from a specific location (due to safety, access restrictions, or verification limits), this is clearly explained in the article or its context, without compromising operational security.
76. Do your Editorial Guidelines require transparency where a location report has been facilitated by an external body?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards require transparency when location reporting is facilitated by an external body. Section 21 requires disclosure of any external facilitation (such as travel, access, or logistics provided by a government, military, NGO, or corporation), identification of the facilitating party, and confirmation that such facilitation does not affect our editorial independence.
10.6. Automatically Generated Content
77. Do you publish any content that is automatically generated?
No
10.7. Algorithmic Dissemination and Curation
78. Do you use any algorithms for the dissemination or curation of content?
No
10.8. Treatment of Explicit Content
79. Do your Editorial Guidelines ensure the ethically appropriate treatment of violent and explicit content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards ensure the ethically appropriate treatment of violent and explicit content. Section 22 requires editorial justification for such content, minimization of harm, content warnings for readers, protection of minors, responsible coverage of sensitive topics (suicide, sexual violence), and respect for the dignity of victims.
80. Do your Editorial Guidelines ensure the ethically appropriate treatment of content which features children or other vulnerable people?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards ensure the ethically appropriate treatment of content featuring children and other vulnerable people. Section 23 requires protection of children's identity, dignified treatment of vulnerable groups (persons with disabilities, refugees, elderly), protection of victims of violence or abuse, informed consent where required, and a prohibition on exploiting vulnerability for sensationalism.
81. Do your Editorial Guidelines ensure the ethically appropriate handling of live content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards ensure the ethically appropriate handling of live content. Section 24 requires clear distinction between verified and unverified information, labelling of unverified content, editorial oversight of live coverage, avoidance or delayed use of graphic live footage, prioritization of safety, and prompt corrections of errors made during live reporting.
Responsibility for Content Provided by the General Public
11.1. User Generated Content/Eyewitness News
82. Does your Media Outlet publish any content that comes not from staff or freelancers but from external sources such as readers/viewers?
No
11.3. Opinion Guidelines
83. Do your Editorial Guidelines also include provision for ensuring comment material is free from defamation?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards include provisions for ensuring comment material is free from defamation. Section 25 requires moderation of comments, compliance with applicable defamation laws, prompt removal of defamatory content, a reporting mechanism for readers, and cooperation with authorities. Our Disclaimer also states that we reserve the right to moderate, edit, or delete comments deemed inappropriate or violating our terms.
84. Do your Editorial Guidelines also include provision for ensuring comment material is free from invasions of privacy?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards include provisions for ensuring comment material is free from invasions of privacy. Section 26 requires moderation of comments, removal of personal data, prohibition of doxxing, protection of minors' privacy, a reporting mechanism for readers, and compliance with applicable privacy laws. Our Privacy Policy also protects the personal information of visitors.
85. Do your Editorial Guidelines also include provision for ensuring comment material is free from hate speech?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards include provisions for ensuring comment material is free from hate speech. Section 27 establishes zero tolerance for hate speech, requires active moderation and prompt removal, allows banning of repeat offenders, provides a reporting mechanism for readers, and ensures compliance with applicable laws against hate speech and incitement.
86. Do your Editorial Guidelines also include provision for ensuring comment material is free from harassment?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards include provisions for ensuring comment material is free from harassment. Section 28 prohibits harassment, intimidation, threats, and targeting of individuals or groups; requires moderation and prompt removal; protects victims; allows banning of repeat offenders; provides a reporting mechanism; and ensures compliance with applicable laws against harassment and threats.
87. Is it clear to the public whether your Media Outlet’s moderation of such comment is pre- or post-publication?
Yes
88. Does this policy allow for the removal of offending material?
Yes
Responsibility for Sources
12.1. Anonymity
89. Are there guidelines on the procedures to be followed for granting anonymity to sources?
Yes
90. Are the reasons for granting anonymity made clear to the public?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards ensure that the reasons for granting anonymity are made clear to the public. Section 32 requires that the reason for anonymity (e.g., risk of retaliation, safety concerns, employment risk) is explained to readers in the article, without revealing information that could identify the source. This helps maintain public trust and allows readers to assess the credibility of the information.
12.2. Privacy Rights
91. Are there guidelines to ensure that the privacy rights and safety of individuals are protected in your journalistic activity?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards include guidelines to protect the privacy rights and safety of individuals. Section 33 requires respect for privacy, protection of identities (victims, witnesses), prioritization of safety in reporting, special care for minors, secure handling of personal data, and editorial review of decisions involving private or sensitive information. Related provisions appear in Sections 6, 22, 23, 25–32.
12.3. Independence and Sources
92. Are there guidelines to ensure the independence of journalism relative to the sources for content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards include guidelines to ensure the independence of journalism relative to sources. Section 34 states that sources do not control what is published, that we do not pay for coverage (except where clearly justified and approved), that information from all sources is verified, that sources cannot pressure or suppress publication, that close relationships with sources are disclosed or managed through recusal, and that subjects may respond without gaining editorial control.
12.4. Diversity of Sources
93. Do the guidelines ensure that a diversity of sources is used in the production of your journalistic content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards ensure that a diversity of sources is used in journalistic content. Section 35 requires seeking multiple perspectives, including sources from different genders, ethnicities, religions, ages, regions, and social groups; avoiding over-reliance on officials or a small set of recurring sources; and reflecting the diversity of the society we cover. Section 4 (Fairness & Balance) also supports this commitment.
Professionalism for Affiliations
13.1. Sponsored Content Policies
94. Do your Editorial Guidelines have specific policies for distinguishing commercial or sponsored content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards have specific policies for distinguishing commercial or sponsored content. Section 36 requires clear labelling (e.g., "Sponsored", "Advertisement"), visual distinction from editorial content, a prohibition on disguising commercial content as editorial, editorial independence from advertisers, and disclosure of sponsorship. Sections 7 and 11 also support these policies.
13.2. Sponsored Content Indicators
95. Do you publish any sponsored content?
Yes
95.a. Do your Editorial Guidelines require all sponsored content to be clearly labelled or otherwise made clear?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards require all sponsored content to be clearly labelled. Section 11 requires that sponsored, paid, or promotional content is clearly labelled and kept visually distinct from editorial content. Section 36 specifies that such content must be labelled as "Sponsored", "Advertisement", or "Paid Content", with visual distinction from editorial content. Advertisers and sponsors do not influence editorial decisions.
95.b. Do your Editorial Guidelines require sponsored content to be labelled and made clearly distinguishable from your own content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards require sponsored content to be labelled and made clearly distinguishable from our own editorial content. Section 11 requires that sponsored, paid, or promotional content is clearly labelled and kept visually distinct from editorial content. Section 36 specifies visual distinction (formatting, colours, banners) and prohibits disguising commercial content as editorial content.
13.3. Separation of News and Opinion
96. Do your Editorial Guidelines require a clear distinction to be made between news content and opinion content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards require a clear distinction between news content and opinion content. Section 37 requires labelling of opinion pieces, editorials, columns, and analysis; visual distinction from news reporting; prohibition of presenting opinion as fact; and editorial oversight to maintain this distinction. Sections 7 and 36 also support separation of different content types.
97. Do your Editorial Guidelines require a clear distinction to be made between news content and commercial content?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards require a clear distinction between news content and commercial content. Section 7 states that editorial content is kept strictly separate from commercial and sponsored content. Section 11 requires clear labelling of sponsored content. Section 36 specifies visual distinction and prohibits disguising commercial content as editorial content.
98. Do you in editorial practice or in Editorial Guidelines require a clear distinction to be made between news content and content supplied by an external non-journalistic body?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards require a clear distinction between news content and content supplied by external non-journalistic bodies. Section 38 requires labelling of such content (e.g., press releases, corporate communications, NGO materials), prohibits presenting it as original news, requires editorial review and contextualisation, identifies the source, and clarifies that publication does not imply endorsement.
Internal Accountability
14.1. Dealing with Inaccuracies
99. Do you have a clear process to allow potential errors to be communicated to the Media Outlet by the public?
Yes
99.a. Do you publish that process?
Yes
99.a.i. What is the URL where it can be seen? Or, where is it seen next to each bit of Content?
Yes, our process for reporting potential errors is published on our Editorial Standards page (Section 39). The public can report errors through our Contact page, by email ([email protected]), or through our social media accounts. Our Contact page is publicly accessible.
100. Do you have a clear process to allow potential errors to be communicated to the Media Outlet by those with direct involvement in the story?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our Editorial Standards include a clear process for those directly involved in a story to report potential errors. Section 40 provides direct channels (email, phone, Contact page), priority handling, the right of reply for directly involved parties, prompt corrections if an error is confirmed, protection from retaliation, and documentation. Section 34 also ensures the right of reply without giving editorial control.
100.a. Do you have a clear process for assessing and dealing with the claims?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, we have a clear process for assessing and dealing with claims. Section 39 states that reports are acknowledged and reviewed by the editorial team, which determines whether a correction is necessary. Section 40 specifies priority handling for directly involved parties, prompt corrections if errors are confirmed, and documentation by the Editor-in-Chief. Section 9 provides that the Editor-in-Chief oversees all corrections.
101. Is there a systematic editorial structure in the Media Outlet to ensure that any inaccuracies in its content are corrected in a timely and transparent manner?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, we have a systematic editorial structure to ensure inaccuracies are corrected in a timely and transparent manner. Section 5 states we correct errors promptly and take responsibility for our reporting. Section 9 specifies that the Editor-in-Chief oversees corrections and clarifications. Sections 39 and 40 provide clear processes for the public and directly involved parties to report errors, and require prompt, transparent corrections when errors are confirmed.
14.2. Publishing Corrections
102. Does your Media Outlet guarantee the publication of the correction of all significant inaccuracies and errors in a similar place and manner as the original version, such as the same URL or in similar time and format of broadcast?
Yes
14.3. Contact and Process for Complaints
103. Does your organisation have a designated contact in the event of complaints about potential breaches of its journalism principles or Editorial Guidelines?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, Zerqiva has a designated contact for complaints about potential breaches of its journalistic principles or Editorial Guidelines. Section 42 designates the Owner and Editor-in-Chief as the contact, provides email ([email protected]) and Contact page as channels, and requires prompt acknowledgment, fair investigation, response to the complainant, and documentation.
104. Does your organisation have a designated process for the public to open a dialogue with you regarding potential breaches of its journalism principles or Editorial Guidelines? (These may follow the Uniform Correction or Clarification act adopted by most U.S. States.)
Yes
104.a. Is that information clearly available?
Yes
104.a.i. What is the URL of where this information is available? If it is not on a single page, describe where people can find it.
https://zerqiva.com/editorial-standards
https://zerqiva.com/contact
14.4. Internal Process for Complaints
105. Are your staff (Employees and Freelance) aware of the process that must be followed in the event of such complaints?
Yes
106. Are they aware that all such complaints must be brought to the attention of a senior member of staff (of organisations large enough to have a staff) not directly connected with the creation of the story?
Yes
107. Is your Media Outlet committed to the resolution of any such complaints in a fair, reasonable and timely manner?
Yes
14.5. Independence of Ombudsperson
108. Does the Media Outlet have an Ombudsperson?
No
External Accountability
15.1. External Oversight
109. Have you committed to a system or systems of external accountability for your editorial content?
Yes
109.a. What are they?
1. Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI) — Zerqiva is engaged with the JTI certification process, which provides external, independent assessment of our compliance with journalistic standards. 2. Internationally Recognised Journalistic Principles — Our Editorial Standards adhere to widely accepted journalistic principles including accuracy, independence, fairness, accountability, and transparency. 3. Public Editorial Standards — Our Editorial Standards are publicly available at https://zerqiva.com/editorial-standards, allowing public scrutiny and accountability.
If the system is not in the above list, add it here with a URL.
Name: Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI)
URL: https://journalismtrustinitiative.org/
15.2. Compliance with External Accountability
110. Is your Media Outlet committed to comply with any directions or guidance issued by the external accountability body to which you subscribe?
Yes
15.3. Absence of external oversight
111. Is your Media Outlet subject to an external regulatory mechanism for content that you find it not possible to comply with?
No
15.4. Contact Details of External Accountability Bodies
112. Are the mechanisms for the public to complain about breaches of your Editorial Guidelines to an external body publicly available?
Yes
112.a. What is the link?
https://journalismtrustinitiative.org/
15.5. Other Associations
113. Do you belong to any other bodies that require members to adhere to published guidelines, standards or norms to maintain status in that organisation?
Yes
113.a. What are they?
Zerqiva is an independent online media outlet and is not currently a member of any external body that requires adherence to published guidelines as a condition of membership. We are engaged with the Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI) certification process and adhere to internationally recognised journalistic principles.
If the body is not in the above list, add it here with a URL.
Name: Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI)
URL: https://journalismtrustinitiative.org/
URL
https://journalismtrustinitiative.org/
113.b. Do you publish those groups, and their contact details?
No
Professionalism in the Media Outlet
16.1. Recruitment and Training
114. Do you have guidelines for the recruitment and training of editorial staff?
Yes
114.a. Do those guidelines contain a diversity policy?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our recruitment guidelines include a diversity policy. Section 47 commits Zerqiva to equal opportunity, inclusive recruitment, an inclusive workplace, representation of diverse backgrounds, anti-discrimination, and periodic review. Recruitment is based on merit and qualifications, without discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics.
114.b. Do those guidelines cover staff welfare?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our guidelines cover staff welfare. Section 48 commits Zerqiva to the safety and well-being of editorial staff and contributors, including safe working conditions, mental health support, fair treatment, work-life balance, and support in crisis. We prioritise the physical and mental well-being of our team.
114.c. Are they publicly available?
Yes
114.c.i. What is the URL?
https://zerqiva.com/editorial-standards
16.2. Working Conditions, Contract Policy and Labour Relations
115. Do the regulations and guidelines for the employment of staff and engagement of contract journalists protect their editorial independence?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our regulations and guidelines protect the editorial independence of staff and contract journalists. Section 49 ensures that contracts do not require compromising editorial independence; that staff are protected from pressure by owners, management, advertisers, or political actors; that staff may refuse assignments that violate our Editorial Standards; that staff are protected from retaliation; that whistleblower protection applies; and that editorial decisions remain with editorial staff, not business or ownership interests. Sections 2, 11, and 12 also reinforce these protections.
116. Are your employees (including freelance) covered by legal contracts and insurance?
Yes
117. Does your staff have the freedom to organise?
Yes
118. Do you have an existing structure for social dialogue including a collective bargaining arrangement with appropriate trade unions?
No
119. Are there guidelines for contracts of engagement with freelance journalists?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, we have guidelines for contracts of engagement with freelance journalists. Section 50 states that freelance engagements are governed by written contracts where possible, that freelancers are compensated fairly, that they are protected from pressure compromising editorial independence, that they must comply with our Editorial Standards, that rights and attribution are clearly defined, and that safety and welfare considerations apply (Sections 48 and 49).
119.a. Do these guidelines ensure the ability of freelancers to adhere to the editorial principles?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, these guidelines ensure the ability of freelancers to adhere to our editorial principles. Section 50 requires freelancers to comply with our Editorial Standards and protects them from pressure that could compromise their editorial independence. Section 46 requires that freelance contributors are informed of our Editorial Standards and expected to comply. Section 49 protects contract journalists from pressure by owners, management, advertisers, or political actors.
16.3. Staff Welfare
120. Does your Media Outlet's rules and procedures protect against discrimination in the workplace?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our rules and procedures protect against discrimination in the workplace. Section 47 (Diversity Policy in Recruitment) states that recruitment is based on merit without discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics, and that discrimination or harassment is not tolerated. Section 48 (Staff Welfare) requires fair treatment of staff and freelancers without harassment or discrimination.
121. Does your Media Outlet's rules and procedures support equality of opportunity?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, our rules and procedures support equality of opportunity. Section 47 (Diversity Policy in Recruitment) states that recruitment is based on merit and qualifications, without discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. We actively seek candidates from diverse backgrounds, aim for our editorial staff to reflect a range of backgrounds and perspectives, and prohibit discrimination or harassment. Section 48 also ensures fair treatment of all staff and freelancers.
122. Does your Media Outlet have a safety at work policy, which includes specific protection for journalists working in hostile environments?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, we have a safety at work policy that includes specific protection for journalists working in hostile environments. Section 51 covers general workplace safety; specific protection for hostile environments (risk assessment, safety training, protective equipment); insurance and support for high-risk assignments; digital safety; post-incident support including mental health; and the right to refuse assignments that pose unacceptable risk. Sections 6 and 48 also reinforce these commitments.
123. Does your Media Outlet have guidelines to support editorial staff who have been exposed to material of a sensitive or upsetting nature?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, we have guidelines to support editorial staff exposed to sensitive or upsetting material. Section 52 recognises the impact of such material; provides access to mental health support; manages workload and exposure; provides training; encourages peer support; ensures confidentiality; and allows time for recovery. Sections 48 and 51 also reinforce our commitment to staff well-being.
124. Does your Media Outlet have guidelines to support editorial staff who suffered physical or psychological harm in the course of their work?
Yes
If you want to publish additional information, please provide it here.
Yes, we have guidelines to support editorial staff who suffer physical or psychological harm in the course of their work. Section 53 recognises that journalists may suffer harm; provides access to medical care; provides mental health support; covers medical costs and considers compensation; allows recovery time including paid leave; considers long-term support; ensures confidentiality and no stigma; and prohibits penalising staff for harm suffered in the course of work.
Training
17.1. Training in Editorial Guidelines
125. Does your Media Outlet have a training programme for editorial staff that includes sections on the Editorial Guidelines and other legal and ethical issues?
Yes
126. Is there refresher training available for significant changes in the law or guidelines?
Yes
127. Does your staff have expert advice available for consultation when dealing with legal and compliance issues?
Yes
Publication of Self-Assessment
18.1. General Public
128. Does your Media Outlet publish your answers to this self-assessment based on the JTI Standard?
Yes
128.a. Is it available to readers?
Yes
128.a.i. What is the URL?
https://zerqiva.com/transparency
The JTI Transparency Report is published here:
https://zerqiva.com/transparency
18.2. Machine-readability
129. Does your Media Outlet publish your answers in a machine-readable format?
No