the other side of the story

OUR VALUES

Welcome to the Mission Statement of Reporters Network.

Our aim is to provide a platform for freelance writers around the world to share their stories. Our network values integrity, objectivity, and the pursuit of truth in all aspects of our work.

At Reporters Network, we firmly believe in the power of journalism to bring about positive change in society. We hope to promoting social justice by giving a voice to the marginalised, and shedding light on social issues.

While this is our current intention, we hope for the members of the network to feel free to pick their own topics for articles and be comfortable to make suggestions. This is a non-profit project, and we hope that we can develop it together.

Not only do we believe that traditional forms of media have gradually lost their credibility, we believe that many of them are now complicit in pushing corporate and political agendas, promoting harmful actions that are conducted by governments to the detriment of us all.

Misinformation, disinformation and omission of information permeate many modern mainstream media outlets, so we aim to present the other side of the story.

Members are encouraged to cover stories that highlight the struggles and triumphs of underrepresented communities, to present stories with perspectives from differing cultures and break down stereotypes.

We are seeking articles on any topic that may be of interest to readers.

OUR PROPOSAL

Currently, we are looking to develop a global network of freelance reporters, and help them create a collection of high quality articles for publication on the website.

We hope to present background and analysis of current events alongside thought provoking and informative articles of interest from different cultures and perspectives. We will allow the outlet to develop naturally, it’s direction being shaped by the reporters of the network themselves.

WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN OUR NETWORK

What we offer is this:

• The opportunity to work and gain experience within a team of like minded reporters.

• We can help you produce articles.

• We will try to offer advice and support as required.

• All original written work submitted by you, remains your property. We will only retain the final edits as our property for publication. By submitting an article to us, you give us the right to use the material.

• All original photographic work taken by you, remains your property. We will only retain final edits as our property for publication. By submitting your photograph to us, you give us the right to use the picture. Photographs will be properly attributed to the owner.

• If you choose to submit original written work or photographs elsewhere or use them for other purposes, you are free to do so.

• Having quality articles published increases your portfolio.

• We believe in letting writers find their own voice. We encourage you to develop your own style, and will work hard to ensure that is carried through into the final articles.

• At your discretion, we will post your professional profile alongside articles. We will only list whatever information you want us to and will never pass on any further information without your approval.

WHAT WE REQUIRE

Firstly, we need quality stories to populate our website.

Secondly, we need a collection of different voices, different attitudes and perspectives.

We are looking for both local stories and features about global events.

We are interested in all kinds of articles, although we are hoping to focus particularly on stories from alternative perspectives.

The more diverse our network, the stronger we will be.

Don’t worry if you’re not sure how to get started. Once we know a little more about you, your interests and location, we can give you some suggestions.

WHAT YOU REQUIRE

• While perfect English is not required, a reasonable competency is necessary. What is important is that you can communicate with us effectively. If your English skills are limited, our editorial team can help with spelling and grammar.

• Good journalism requires a variety of abilities and a good level of intelligence. It’s important to be able to assess articles, research effectively and dissect information.

• Formal qualifications are not necessary. However, you should strive to acquire a good understanding of journalism as an industry.

• You should constantly endeavour to improve your writing skills, either through practice or study.

• You need to be reasonably contactable. Email is our preferred form of communication. Network members will be provided additional contact details with the editorial team.

• You will need the ability to accept and work with professional criticism. Pushback from the editorial team will improve your skills. It’s never personal, it’s simply part of the process and a healthy sign that both sides are doing their jobs correctly.

HOW TO SUBMIT ARTICLES

You may wish to consider the following sizes for articles:

SHORT ARTICLE: 300-500 words
MEDIUM ARTICLE: 500-1000 words
LONG ARTICLE: 1000-2000 words

Generally, aiming for around 1000 words is preferable although these word counts not fixed, and a writer should not feel constrained by them. Rather they are presented as an idea, or a basis to work from.

Any supporting links you may wish to add should be supplied at the bottom of the article.

Any photographs should be attached in jpeg format, preferably unedited and without cropping. If you are not the owner of the photograph, you must obtain written permission from the legal owner, together with contact details.

If you have no photos, just let us know and we can source something appropriate from stock content libraries.

All photographs will be properly attributed on publication.
All draft articles should be submitted to: editor@reportersnetwork.org

When we receive your drafted articles, we will provide editorial feedback. Once approved, we will publish articles to our blog and promote on media platforms.

INTEGRITY AND CONDUCT

Integrity is at the core of our organisation. Writers are expected to adhere to the highest journalistic standards, conducting thorough research and verifying facts in their stories.

As part of our commitment to honest objective reporting, we encourage reporters to disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may arise in their coverage.

It is important to note that each member of our network is an individual journalist responsible for their own conduct and actions. As an organisation, we cannot be held liable for any misconduct or unethical behaviour exhibited by our members.

We are committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all our members.

By joining our team, you become part of a community that values truth, fairness, and the pursuit of a fairer society. We look forward to welcoming you to the network.