Editorial Standards

Accuracy and Verification
Primary verifies information through firsthand observation, credible sourcing, and careful editorial review before publication.

Corrections and Accountability
Primary corrects errors promptly and transparently when inaccuracies are identified.

Truthful Representation
All images, audio, and video must reflect events as they actually occurred, without staging, reenactment, or manipulation.

Independence
Primary journalists maintain editorial independence and avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise credibility.

Witnessed and Sourced Reporting
Reporting is based on firsthand observation whenever possible and clearly attributed when information comes from others.

Context and Fairness
Stories are presented with sufficient context and a good-faith effort to reflect relevant perspectives.

Visual and Audio Integrity
Editing may be used only to preserve clarity and coherence and may never change the meaning or reality of what occurred.

Respect for Subjects
All individuals are treated with dignity, with particular care given to vulnerable people and communities.

Safety and Do No Harm
Primary prioritizes the safety of journalists and subjects and avoids publishing material that could reasonably cause harm.

Transparency
Primary is clear about what is known, what is unknown, and the limits of available information.

Ethical Commitment
All contributors are expected to uphold these standards and raise ethical concerns promptly when questions arise.