VERIFIED MEMBERS
Membership in the EFCSN signifies an organisation’s rigorous commitment to provide accurate information ethically and transparently, without bias or prejudice and focus on matters in the public interest as well as a proven track record of excellence, integrity and accountability as definied in the European Code of Standards for Independent Fact-Checking Organisations.
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AFP (Agence France-Presse)
Website
https://factuel.afp.com/Date
13/07/2023
Please, answer the following questions:
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
AFP’s fact-checking operation started in 2017, exclusively for the purpose of fact-checking. AFP Factuel was the first section created, following the work done collaboratively around the CrossCheck France project against disinformation during the French presidential election campaign. AFP’s fact-checking operation then grew from 2017 onwards to cover more languages and regions, for an increased impact in the fight against disinformation. AFP's fact-checking operation is now present in 24 languages at global level, including 14 in Europe.
AFP Factuel is a distinct, French-speaking fact-checking section of the legally registered French press agency AFP (Agence France-Presse).
AFP Proveri is a distinct, Bulgarian section of the legally registered French press agency AFP (Agence France-Presse). AFP Proveri was set up in 2021, exclusively for the purpose of fact-checking.
AFP Proveri is a distinct, Bulgarian section of the legally registered French press agency AFP (Agence France-Presse). AFP Proveri was set up in 2021, exclusively for the purpose of fact-checking.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
AFP's Digital Investigation team counts more than 140 staff around the world. Most of them are fact-checkers, but there are also editors, and other positions around innovation, training, partnerships...
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/zapoznayte-se-s-ekipa (in Bulgarian)
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Some of AFP's Digital Investigation team also engage in:
- - training
- - public presentations of our work
- - tech innovation to reinforce fact-checking tools
- - collaborations and partnerships on fighting disinformation, especially at European level
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim (in Bulgarian)
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
In 2023 we will be adding two new European languages to our global fact-checking operation: Croatian and Swedish.
We also hope to expand our partnerships with fellow fact-checkers and other actors fighting disinformation in Europe through our various European hubs and projects. More detail about our European projects can be found here.
We hope to reinforce transparency and strengthen the impact of our work with online platforms and social networks.
We also hope to expand our partnerships with fellow fact-checkers and other actors fighting disinformation in Europe through our various European hubs and projects. More detail about our European projects can be found here.
We hope to reinforce transparency and strengthen the impact of our work with online platforms and social networks.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Expanding international collaborations, reinforcing transparency and emphasizing work with online platforms are adequate and important goals of the operation AFP Proveri.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/za-afp (in Bulgarian)
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
AFP's fact-checking operation includes 14 European languages, each one of them having a dedicated website: Bulgarian, Catalan, Czech, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Polish, Romanian, Serbian, Slovak and Spanish.
The fact-checkers debunking misinformation in these languages are based in AFP’s newsrooms across Europe, including in Athens, Barcelona, Belgrade, Prague, The Hague, Helsinki, Paris, Berlin, Vienna and Warsaw.
The Europe team’s work also feeds into the European hubs belonging to the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) network: DE FACTO for France, CEDMO for the Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia, EDMO BELUX for Belgium and Luxembourg, HDMO-Lakmusz for Hungary, GADMO for Germany and Austria, BROD for Romania and Bulgaria, ADMO for Croatia and Slovenia, and MedMO for Greece, Cyprus and Malta.
AFP also collaborates with other European projects fighting disinformation, as listed here.
The Europe team’s work also feeds into the European hubs belonging to the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) network: DE FACTO for France, CEDMO for the Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia, EDMO BELUX for Belgium and Luxembourg, HDMO-Lakmusz for Hungary, GADMO for Germany and Austria, BROD for Romania and Bulgaria, ADMO for Croatia and Slovenia, and MedMO for Greece, Cyprus and Malta.
AFP also collaborates with other European projects fighting disinformation, as listed here.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Accoding to the Chapter 5.2. – C The applicant must have a substantial and demonstrable focus on one (or more) of the countries of the Council of Europe, plus Kosovo or Belarus.
AFP's fact-checking department includes sections working on 14 European languages, each one of them having a dedicated website.
AFP Proveri is a distinct Bulgarian section, aimed at debunking misinformation in Bulgarian and mainly for Bulgarians.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/list
AFP Proveri is a distinct Bulgarian section, aimed at debunking misinformation in Bulgarian and mainly for Bulgarians.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/list
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 5.2.- С.
Applicant
Date: 17/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to the Chapter 5.2. – D Applicants must provide evidence to demonstrate they have published an average of four original fact-checks per month consistently over the previous year.
The applicants are invited to attach an evidence – a list of an average of four original fact-checks per month from the past year if this is your first time applying to the EFCSN.
230 fact checks have been published in Bulgarian on the website of AFP Proveri (2021 - 2023). They are published regularly.
The regularity is confirmed by the provided list of original fact - checks in Bulgarian for 2022. Some of them have been created in co-authorship.
Sources:
2. Included list
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 5.2.- D.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Le changement majeur que nous avons dû mettre en œuvre était de veiller à ce que les mêmes informations à jour soient disponibles en ligne dans les 24 langues. Cela impliquait également d'ajouter plus de détails sur la structure de gouvernance et les finances de l'AFP.
Le code EFCSN n'a pas entraîné de changements majeurs en termes de directives éditoriales - mais certaines parties du code nous aident à rationaliser notre approche dans des domaines tels que la confidentialité, garantissant que nos équipes appliquent systématiquement nos normes éthiques déjà explicites dans nos vérifications des faits.
Le code EFCSN n'a pas entraîné de changements majeurs en termes de directives éditoriales - mais certaines parties du code nous aident à rationaliser notre approche dans des domaines tels que la confidentialité, garantissant que nos équipes appliquent systématiquement nos normes éthiques déjà explicites dans nos vérifications des faits.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
On the basis of the application form, the EFCSN code hasn't resulted in major changes in terms of editorial guidelines of the operation.
Article 2.2: Methodology
In order to be recognised as a verified member of the European Fact-Checking Standards Network (EFCSN), operations must:
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Voici des liens vers notre page "Comment nous travaillons" en français et en bulgare .
Cette page est également publiée dans toutes nos autres langues.
Cette page est également publiée dans toutes nos autres langues.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 2.A. requires the explanation of the fact-checking process to be available and easily accessible on the website of the operation.
This requirement is properly fulfilled, the detailed explanation titled "How we work" is available and easily accessible via main menu on the website.
This requirement is properly fulfilled, the detailed explanation titled "How we work" is available and easily accessible via main menu on the website.
Source:
https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 2A.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 2 B requires using the same standards applied to evidence on equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim.
This principle is announced as a part of methodology: "We apply the same investigative approach and standards of evidence regardless of who has made the claim, and we do not focus on any one candidate, party or website. We may however produce more fact-checks on sources that are consistent spreaders of potentially harmful misinformation. " [1]
For example, photos of mass gatherings of people are used arbitrarily to illustrate other events unrelated to the subject of the photo. The same methods and standards are used to expose misleading information regardless of the source:
a) The footage with the burning Bulgarian flag was shot in North Macedonia in 2021, not in Kyiv in 2015 [2]
b) This photo shows a march of Trump supporters in 2020, not an anti-war rally held recently [3]
c) This is a photo from a march in Republika Srpska and has nothing to do with the war in Ukraine [4]
d) March in support of Ukraine in Rome in 2022 is falsely presented as a protest against Zelensky in Ukraine [5]
Sources:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2]https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.337D6YP
[3]https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33A98VD
[4]https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.326U2NY
[5]https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33C78C4
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 2B.
This principle is announced as a part of methodology: "We apply the same investigative approach and standards of evidence regardless of who has made the claim, and we do not focus on any one candidate, party or website. We may however produce more fact-checks on sources that are consistent spreaders of potentially harmful misinformation. " [1]
For example, photos of mass gatherings of people are used arbitrarily to illustrate other events unrelated to the subject of the photo. The same methods and standards are used to expose misleading information regardless of the source:
a) The footage with the burning Bulgarian flag was shot in North Macedonia in 2021, not in Kyiv in 2015 [2]
b) This photo shows a march of Trump supporters in 2020, not an anti-war rally held recently [3]
c) This is a photo from a march in Republika Srpska and has nothing to do with the war in Ukraine [4]
d) March in support of Ukraine in Rome in 2022 is falsely presented as a protest against Zelensky in Ukraine [5]
Sources:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2]https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.337D6YP
[3]https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33A98VD
[4]https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.326U2NY
[5]https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33C78C4
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 2B.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Comme expliqué dans notre méthodologie ( ici en bulgare et ici en français), nous « enquêtons sur les présomptions douteuses circulant en ligne qui sont virales, percutantes et potentiellement dangereuses pour le public ».
En outre, "nous accordons une attention particulière à la désinformation qui pourrait mettre en danger la santé ou la vie des personnes, nuire aux processus démocratiques ou promouvoir les discours de haine et le racisme".
Cette mission est également énoncée dans notre livre de style sur le fact-checking .
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 2 C requires fact-checks to be focused on topics that are in the public interest, defined here as issues that concern the welfare of society or individuals.
In "AFP editorial standards and best practices" are listed typical "areas of concern" - such as: elections, mass shootings, grief/ minimizing harm, hate speech/ incitement to violence etc. [1], Covid-19 pandemic (2020-2023) and war in Ukraine (2022-) and related topics such as the refugee flow. А matter of public interest is also the opposition between East and West, the clash of European values with the denial of the country's pro-European orientation, the attitude towards the EU and NATO.
All fact-checks with very few exceptions are devoted to these topics. In the central horizontal menu of the website, the leading topics are Health, Science, Environment and Politics.
Sources:
[1] AFP editorial standards and best practices - p.10-12
https://www.afp.com/sites/default/files/_afp_ethic_mars_2023.pdf
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2C.
In "AFP editorial standards and best practices" are listed typical "areas of concern" - such as: elections, mass shootings, grief/ minimizing harm, hate speech/ incitement to violence etc. [1], Covid-19 pandemic (2020-2023) and war in Ukraine (2022-) and related topics such as the refugee flow. А matter of public interest is also the opposition between East and West, the clash of European values with the denial of the country's pro-European orientation, the attitude towards the EU and NATO.
All fact-checks with very few exceptions are devoted to these topics. In the central horizontal menu of the website, the leading topics are Health, Science, Environment and Politics.
Sources:
[1] AFP editorial standards and best practices - p.10-12
https://www.afp.com/sites/default/files/_afp_ethic_mars_2023.pdf
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2C.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to the Art.2D the operations make available and easily accessible on their website a channel through which the public can submit possible claims for verification and encourage users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable.
AFP Proveri provides available and easily accessible channel through which the public can submit possible claims for verification:
a) on the website [1]
b) there is another opportunity via facebook [2]
Sources;
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kontakt
[2] https://www.facebook.com/proveriafp/
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2D.
AFP Proveri provides available and easily accessible channel through which the public can submit possible claims for verification:
a) on the website [1]
b) there is another opportunity via facebook [2]
Sources;
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kontakt
[2] https://www.facebook.com/proveriafp/
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2D.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art.2E requires the reader to have access to all information for a verification process.
The posts on the AFR Proveri site are very detailed and circumstantial, presenting the analysts' reasoning step by step to the conclusion - usually presented in a concise form in the title.
The subject of publications is, for example, the status of refugees from the war in Ukraine who arrive in Bulgaria. According to some publications on the social networks, Ukrainians receive free apartments and benefits that are not available to Bulgarian citizens.
Although Bulgaria has indeed adopted measures to help refugees, the information is often false or greatly exaggerated.
In a number of fact-checks postings from Facebook are presented, after which the adopted measures are followed up and misleading or outright propaganda information is identified and debunked.
Sources:
Social Media Posts Mislead About Ukrainian Refugees' Services and Aid
The posts on the AFR Proveri site are very detailed and circumstantial, presenting the analysts' reasoning step by step to the conclusion - usually presented in a concise form in the title.
The subject of publications is, for example, the status of refugees from the war in Ukraine who arrive in Bulgaria. According to some publications on the social networks, Ukrainians receive free apartments and benefits that are not available to Bulgarian citizens.
Although Bulgaria has indeed adopted measures to help refugees, the information is often false or greatly exaggerated.
In a number of fact-checks postings from Facebook are presented, after which the adopted measures are followed up and misleading or outright propaganda information is identified and debunked.
Sources:
Social Media Posts Mislead About Ukrainian Refugees' Services and Aid
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32GL3Q3
No, the government does not give an Easter bonus of BGN 150 to every Ukrainian refugee in Bulgaria
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.328N4KK
Misleading articles about the influx of migrants use a 2015 video taken in Slovenia and a 2016 photo from Greece.
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32LB6WP
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2E.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art.2F requires
a) every factual statement to be justified, relying on primary sources where possible and
b) relevant evidence that appears to support the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it to be provided.
Factual statements in fact-checking are detailed and thoroughly substantiated. This applies especially to publications in the fields of Health and Politics. For example, for the publication "CNN did not quote Viktor Orbán as saying that Boyko Borisov and Kiril Petkov received a bribe to send Bulgarian troops to Ukraine", AFP Proveri contacted the press office of the Hungarian Prime Minister. "The quote attributed to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is not from him. The content you refer to is indeed fake news," the International Communications Service responded in an email to AFP received on March 14, 2023. Additionally Bulgarian expert Nikola Tulechki also comments. [1]
Art. 2F also requires considering relevant evidence that appears to support the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it. This requirement is also respected, for example in the publication "No, the Bulgarian government has not made a decision to send troops to Ukraine" - statements are given according to which there is a decision, as well as those according to which the government has not made a decision to send troops and the established facts are indicated. [2]
The same can be found in the publication "No, Bulgaria is not the only country in which no referendum was held". Contrary to the claims of the economist Sariyski, it is proved that there have never been referendums on membership in 11 EU Member States: Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus , France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain. [3]
Sources:
[1] "CNN did not quote Viktor Orbán as saying that Boyko Borisov and Kiril Petkov received a bribe to send Bulgarian troops to Ukraine" https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33BG3R7
[2] "No, the Bulgarian government has not made a decision to send troops to Ukraine"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.339R87T
[3] "No, Bulgaria is not the only country in which no referendum was held"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.336Z6FM
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2F.
a) every factual statement to be justified, relying on primary sources where possible and
b) relevant evidence that appears to support the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it to be provided.
Factual statements in fact-checking are detailed and thoroughly substantiated. This applies especially to publications in the fields of Health and Politics. For example, for the publication "CNN did not quote Viktor Orbán as saying that Boyko Borisov and Kiril Petkov received a bribe to send Bulgarian troops to Ukraine", AFP Proveri contacted the press office of the Hungarian Prime Minister. "The quote attributed to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is not from him. The content you refer to is indeed fake news," the International Communications Service responded in an email to AFP received on March 14, 2023. Additionally Bulgarian expert Nikola Tulechki also comments. [1]
Art. 2F also requires considering relevant evidence that appears to support the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it. This requirement is also respected, for example in the publication "No, the Bulgarian government has not made a decision to send troops to Ukraine" - statements are given according to which there is a decision, as well as those according to which the government has not made a decision to send troops and the established facts are indicated. [2]
The same can be found in the publication "No, Bulgaria is not the only country in which no referendum was held". Contrary to the claims of the economist Sariyski, it is proved that there have never been referendums on membership in 11 EU Member States: Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus , France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain. [3]
Sources:
[1] "CNN did not quote Viktor Orbán as saying that Boyko Borisov and Kiril Petkov received a bribe to send Bulgarian troops to Ukraine" https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33BG3R7
[2] "No, the Bulgarian government has not made a decision to send troops to Ukraine"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.339R87T
[3] "No, Bulgaria is not the only country in which no referendum was held"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.336Z6FM
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2F.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Article 2G affirms the principle of "at least two sources and, if possible, the sources should be primary".
The principle of "at least two sources" is respected in the work of AFP Proveri.
It is explicitly envisaged in the methodology available on the website: "We require at least two independent sources of information to verify the main claim in the fact-check article." [1]
Any post can illustrate this guiding principle.
For example, in the publication "The UN Charter does not allow Russia to invade Ukraine" it is said that the opinion of the following experts was sought to clarify the facts: Mira Kaneva, professor of international relations at Sofia University, Alexandra Novoselov, associate researcher in political science at the Thucydides Center of the University of Paris-Panthéon-Assas and specialist in the UN Security Council, Guillaume Devin, lecturer in political science at Sciences Po Paris, Mathias Forteau, lecturer in public law at the University of Paris Nanterre, who was elected for a member of the UN International Law Commission for the period 2023-2027. [2]
Another example is the publication "The EU's chief diplomat did not say that EU citizens who heat their homes above 17 degrees are committing a crime against European values" [3] Four sources were used again, one of which was the Borrell press service, the primary source of information.
Multiple sources have been used in all publications dealing with Covid-19 and vaccine use - typically AFP Proveri uses expert, institutional and primary sources, see for example "Posts Claiming WHO Has Decided Against Green Certificates Are Misleading" [4] There are references to primary WHO documents in the article: "
Sources
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2] "The UN Charter does not allow Russia to invade Ukraine"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32MA2DC
[3} "The EU's chief diplomat did not say that EU citizens who heat their homes above 17 degrees are committing a crime against European values"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32ZR9AG
[4} "Posts Claiming WHO Has Decided Against Green Certificates Are Misleading"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.9XY8BE
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2G.
The principle of "at least two sources" is respected in the work of AFP Proveri.
It is explicitly envisaged in the methodology available on the website: "We require at least two independent sources of information to verify the main claim in the fact-check article." [1]
Any post can illustrate this guiding principle.
For example, in the publication "The UN Charter does not allow Russia to invade Ukraine" it is said that the opinion of the following experts was sought to clarify the facts: Mira Kaneva, professor of international relations at Sofia University, Alexandra Novoselov, associate researcher in political science at the Thucydides Center of the University of Paris-Panthéon-Assas and specialist in the UN Security Council, Guillaume Devin, lecturer in political science at Sciences Po Paris, Mathias Forteau, lecturer in public law at the University of Paris Nanterre, who was elected for a member of the UN International Law Commission for the period 2023-2027. [2]
Another example is the publication "The EU's chief diplomat did not say that EU citizens who heat their homes above 17 degrees are committing a crime against European values" [3] Four sources were used again, one of which was the Borrell press service, the primary source of information.
Multiple sources have been used in all publications dealing with Covid-19 and vaccine use - typically AFP Proveri uses expert, institutional and primary sources, see for example "Posts Claiming WHO Has Decided Against Green Certificates Are Misleading" [4] There are references to primary WHO documents in the article: "
Sources
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2] "The UN Charter does not allow Russia to invade Ukraine"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32MA2DC
[3} "The EU's chief diplomat did not say that EU citizens who heat their homes above 17 degrees are committing a crime against European values"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32ZR9AG
[4} "Posts Claiming WHO Has Decided Against Green Certificates Are Misleading"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.9XY8BE
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2G.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art 2H requires transparency of sources. At the same time anonymous sources are not prohibited for use under certain circumstances.
The AFP Proveri methodology explicitly states:
"We transparently show the steps we take in the rebuttal process by including links, embedded content, screenshots, photos, and archived evidence we used to reach our conclusion. Our goal is for readers to understand how the investigation was done and to be able to take the same steps themselves.
As a general rule, AFP does not use anonymous sources in fact-checking articles. This is possible only in exceptional cases when a source is at risk and the information provided by him is necessary for the refutation and is confirmed by other available sources. [1]
An example of a very carefully shown history of exposure step by step, using different methods and technologies, is the publication named "The Red Army monument in Vienna has been covered in paint many times" [2]
No practice of using anonymous sources is observed.
Sources:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2] "The Red Army monument in Vienna has been covered in paint many times"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33BA92V
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2H.
The AFP Proveri methodology explicitly states:
"We transparently show the steps we take in the rebuttal process by including links, embedded content, screenshots, photos, and archived evidence we used to reach our conclusion. Our goal is for readers to understand how the investigation was done and to be able to take the same steps themselves.
As a general rule, AFP does not use anonymous sources in fact-checking articles. This is possible only in exceptional cases when a source is at risk and the information provided by him is necessary for the refutation and is confirmed by other available sources. [1]
An example of a very carefully shown history of exposure step by step, using different methods and technologies, is the publication named "The Red Army monument in Vienna has been covered in paint many times" [2]
No practice of using anonymous sources is observed.
Sources:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2] "The Red Army monument in Vienna has been covered in paint many times"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33BA92V
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2H.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art 2I requires transparency of the expertise and credibility of the professionals quoted.
The AFP Proveri methodology explicitly states:
Our fact-checking articles are based on unbiased primary sources gathered by our journalists, including material from AFP archives and in collaboration with the agency's reporters around the world. We also interview experts and quote them, indicating who they work for, what their area of expertise is, and what conflicts of interest they may have. [1]
There is a particularly careful selection of authorities on health topics, as the Covid 19 pandemic raised new and unexplored questions on which there was no scientific consensus.
In this context, the responsibility of journalism is great, because the journalists must adhere as closely as possible to the scientifically proven facts. This is also characteristic of AFP Proveri if we refer to the fact-checks on the subject "Health".
In the article "It is misleading that the US planning "biological experiments" on Bulgarian soldiers" Terry L. Welch, Director of strategic communications at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) and Prof. Iva Hristova, director of the Bulgarian National Center for Infectious Diseases and Parasitic Diseases are invited to comment. [2] The level and expertise of the experts cannot be doubted.
The article "Green frog logo on some food products doesn't indicate they contain the herbicide atrazine," cites expert opinions from University of Berkeley biology professor Tyrone Hayes, in an email to AFP received on April 4, 2023, as well as e- Mr. Stoilko Apostolov, chairman of "Bioselena" - a Bulgarian foundation for the promotion of organic agriculture. [3] The experts in this field said that Hayes "may have had the greatest potential of anyone in the field." [4]
Sources:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2] "It is misleading that the US planning "biological experiments" on Bulgarian soldiers"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.327V6ZQ
[3] "Green frog logo on some food products doesn't indicate they contain the herbicide atrazine,"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33DH3Q3
[4] A Valuable Reputation
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2014/02/10/a-valuable-reputation
The AFP Proveri methodology explicitly states:
Our fact-checking articles are based on unbiased primary sources gathered by our journalists, including material from AFP archives and in collaboration with the agency's reporters around the world. We also interview experts and quote them, indicating who they work for, what their area of expertise is, and what conflicts of interest they may have. [1]
There is a particularly careful selection of authorities on health topics, as the Covid 19 pandemic raised new and unexplored questions on which there was no scientific consensus.
In this context, the responsibility of journalism is great, because the journalists must adhere as closely as possible to the scientifically proven facts. This is also characteristic of AFP Proveri if we refer to the fact-checks on the subject "Health".
In the article "It is misleading that the US planning "biological experiments" on Bulgarian soldiers" Terry L. Welch, Director of strategic communications at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) and Prof. Iva Hristova, director of the Bulgarian National Center for Infectious Diseases and Parasitic Diseases are invited to comment. [2] The level and expertise of the experts cannot be doubted.
The article "Green frog logo on some food products doesn't indicate they contain the herbicide atrazine," cites expert opinions from University of Berkeley biology professor Tyrone Hayes, in an email to AFP received on April 4, 2023, as well as e- Mr. Stoilko Apostolov, chairman of "Bioselena" - a Bulgarian foundation for the promotion of organic agriculture. [3] The experts in this field said that Hayes "may have had the greatest potential of anyone in the field." [4]
Sources:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2] "It is misleading that the US planning "biological experiments" on Bulgarian soldiers"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.327V6ZQ
[3] "Green frog logo on some food products doesn't indicate they contain the herbicide atrazine,"
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.33DH3Q3
[4] A Valuable Reputation
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2014/02/10/a-valuable-reputation
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2I.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art 2J requires each investigation to be edited by someone other than the author before publication.
The AFP Proveri methodology explicitly states:
"Editing
Our journalists liaise with regional editors throughout the fact-checking process. Editors discuss claims and proposed fact-checking articles with journalists, assess and explain what evidence will be needed, and edit the article before publication."
Source:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
Conclusion: AFP Proveri fulfills the requirement written in Article 2J.
Best Practices:
In addition to the required standards listed above, the Code identifies the following as a best practice that is encouraged but not required to join the EFCSN.
Article 3.1: Non-Partisanship and Impartiality
In order to be recognised as a verified member of the European Fact-checking Standards Network (EFCSN), operations must:
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. A operations must be editorially free and politically independent.
1. The parent organization follows the general ethical spirit and standards of the Code in compliance with Art. 1 E.
AFP is a multi-lingual, multi-cultural news agency whose mission is to provide accurate, balanced and impartial coverage of news wherever and whenever it happens in the world on a continuous basis. As guaranteed by its founding statute, AFP speaks with an independent voice free from political, commercial or ideological influence. These commitments are reflected in AFP’s Charter and editorial standards.
AFP is a multi-lingual, multi-cultural news agency whose mission is to provide accurate, balanced and impartial coverage of news wherever and whenever it happens in the world on a continuous basis. As guaranteed by its founding statute, AFP speaks with an independent voice free from political, commercial or ideological influence. These commitments are reflected in AFP’s Charter and editorial standards.
2. AFP exercises strict editorial independence when fulfilling the terms of all contracts for funding of its activities.
3. Information on partnerships and funding of AFP Proveri and its parent organization complies with the principles of transparency and accountability.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/za-afp
4. In addition to creating its own policies to ensure editorial and ethical standards, the AFP took a leading role in developing the European Fact-Checking Standards Network project, aimed at transparency, impartiality and journalistic excellence in efforts to combat disinformation. AFP Proveri acts as part of the journalistic team and complies with the specified standards in its activities.
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.A.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. B operations must not endorse or advise the public to vote for any political parties or candidates for public office.
AFP Proveri strictly follows the requirements for non-partisanship and fairness,
To the best of my knowledge - there are no facts and practices in violation of this standard.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.B.
AFP Proveri strictly follows the requirements for non-partisanship and fairness,
To the best of my knowledge - there are no facts and practices in violation of this standard.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.B.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. C operations must not conclude any agreement or partnership with a political party or any other public relations and similar activities that could compromise the operation’s reputation for independence and impartiality
This operation's partnerships are public and Code-compliant.
AFP Proveri strictly follows the requirements for non-partisanship and fairness,
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.C.
This operation's partnerships are public and Code-compliant.
AFP Proveri strictly follows the requirements for non-partisanship and fairness,
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.C.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
In our “How we work” page (in French and Bulgarian), we also explain: "we do not focus on any one candidate, party or website. We may however produce more fact-checks on sources that are consistent spreaders of potentially harmful misinformation".
These pages are also available in all our other languages.
Below are 10 fact-checks in French done during the French presidential and legislative elections in 2022. Our team has been fact-checking political representatives of all the French political spectrum for these elections, as listed below. We also produced a graph to show our coverage for each political party during the elections.
These pages are also available in all our other languages.
Below are 10 fact-checks in French done during the French presidential and legislative elections in 2022. Our team has been fact-checking political representatives of all the French political spectrum for these elections, as listed below. We also produced a graph to show our coverage for each political party during the elections.
La quasi-totalité de la "délinquance de rue" imputable "aux immigrés" ou "issus de l'immigration" ? L'invérifiable affirmation de Marine Le Pen | Factuel (afp.com)
Le chômage au plus haut ? La France en "récession" ? Les approximations de Jean-Luc Mélenchon | Factuel (afp.com)
Non, les créations d'emplois durant le quinquennat d'Emmanuel Macron ne sont pas "du jamais vu dans l'économie française" | Factuel (afp.com)
2 millions de voix qui "disparaissent" pour Marine Le Pen ? Une "erreur informatique" invoque France 2 | Factuel (afp.com)
60 millions de réfugiés en Europe en raison des sanctions contre la Russie ? Attention à cette fausse déclaration attribuée à Emmanuel Macron | Factuel (afp.com)
Présidentielle: bataille et querelles de chiffres autour de la baisse du chômage | Factuel (afp.com)
Un usage record de pesticides sous le quinquennat Macron ? L'accusation infondée de Yannick Jadot | Factuel (afp.com)
Non, l'arme nucléaire n'a pas permis à la France d'être membre permanent du Conseil de sécurité de l'ONU, comme l'affirme Fabien Roussel | Factuel (afp.com)
Des sanctions pénales "plus faibles" dans les quartiers sensibles? L'affirmation douteuse de Valérie Pécresse | Factuel (afp.com)
Les juifs français "protégés" par Pétain ? La thèse d'Eric Zemmour récusée par les historiens | Factuel (afp.com)
Below are 13 fact-checks in Bulgarian that show our coverage of players and narratives from across the political spectrum. The fact-checks adhere to the same editorial and ethic
We have debunked disinformation targeting politicians from main political parties in Bulgaria. However, most of the stories related to Bulgarian politics were published in 2021, as there was a major political shift (new political players, presidential elections, etc.). For example, in July 2021, we debunked a doctored image of PM (at that time) Borissov, as well as a missing context post praising him. During the coronavirus pandemic, Borissov’s government was criticized by anti-vaxx groups because of the anti-Covid-19 measures, and we refuted false claims related to this narrative. At the same time we’ve published debunks exposing the ineffective vaccination policy of Borissov’s gov (here). Presidential elections took place in Bulgaria in 2021, and we’ve debunked false claims about two main candidates (here and here).
This story debunks claims on Kiril Petkov, one of Borissov’s main opponents who served as a PM from December 2021 to June 2022. In April 2022, we also debunked false claims targeting Petkov’s government policy toward Ukrainian refugees (here). In August 2022, we tackled claims targeting the former health minister from Borissov’s government.
When we’ve tackled claims related to Bulgaria during communism (like here) we’ve quoted both international (FAO) and national data as to prove that even according to official statistics of the communist regime, the claims are false.
Even though most of our stories after Feb 2022 were dedicated to false claims favouring Russia, we have debunked false claims about Russia before that.
This debunk targets unfounded claims on wildlife conservation organizations, and this one -- unfounded claims on the mining industry.
Even though most of our stories after Feb 2022 were dedicated to false claims favouring Russia, we have debunked false claims about Russia before that.
This debunk targets unfounded claims on wildlife conservation organizations, and this one -- unfounded claims on the mining industry.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. D operations must not focus investigations unduly on one particular political party or side of the political spectrum.
1. In AFP's Methodology is explicitly written: We apply the same investigative approach and standards of evidence regardless of who has made the claim, and we do not focus on any one candidate, party or website.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
2. Public opinion in Bulgaria is polarized on different issues, among which the central ones in recent years are: policy and measures against corruption, the measures against Covid 19 and the application of vaccines, the war in Ukraine. Political parties and leading political figures differ in their attitudes to the issues mentioned.
The operation points out 13 fact-checks in Bulgarian that show the coverage of players and narratives from across the political spectrum.
It is found that fact-checking has been applied in relation to the communities and political parties that are opposed on the above issues, for. ex. to the "parties of the status quo" (GERB) [1] and in relation to the "parties of change" (PP, Democratic Bulgaria) [2].
Presidential elections took place in Bulgaria in 2021, and the operation debunked false claims about two main candidates [1] [3]
There are posts for both the supporters of restrictions against Covid 19 [4] and the opponents of restrictions and vaccines [5].
Since February 2022, the main topic of the Bulgarian media has been the war in Ukraine and the attitude of the Bulgarian authorities towards it. There are fact-checks dedicated to false claims favouring Russia, but AFP Proveri has debunked false claims about Russia before that [6].
Another hot topic of the Bulgarian media is climate change, green policy, the European Green Deal. This debunk [7] targets unfounded claims on wildlife conservation organizations, and this one [8] - unfounded claims on the mining industry.
Sources:
[1] Анастас Герджиков е призовал да се махне термина "турско робство" от учебниците?Anastas Gerdzhikov called to remove the term "Turkish slavery" from textbooks?
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9PJ9RH-1
[2] Кирил Петков е излъгал за квалификацията си в интернет платформа?/Did Kiril Petkov lie about his qualifications on an internet platform?
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9EJ4B2-1
[3] Това е къщата на Румен Радев във Виена? Is this Rumen Radev's house in Vienna?
https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9CX7BK-1
[4] Твърденията на Атанас Мангъров за броя на починалите от Ковид са подвеждащи/ Atanas Mangerov's claims about the number of deaths from Covid are misleading
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.9WF2TD
[5] Министерството на здравеопазването не наказва доктори, които не успяват да ваксинират пациентите си The Ministry of Health does not penalize doctors who fail to vaccinate their patients
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9QG9PH-1
[6] Съдът в Страсбург е признал правото на България да поиска 22 тона злато от Русия? Has the Strasbourg court recognized Bulgaria's right to demand 22 tons of gold from Russia?
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9PC84K-1
[7} Информация във фейсбук за финансирани от ЕС природозащитни проекти е подвеждаща / Information on Facebook about EU-funded environmental projects is misleading
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/informaciya-za-finansirani-ot-es-prirodozashchitni-proekti-koyato-se-spodelya-vv-facebook-e
[8] Злато за 1.5 трилиона евро е било изнесено от България през 2018?Gold worth 1.5 trillion euros was exported from Bulgaria in 2018?
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/celiyat-predpolagaem-razmer-na-zlatnite-nahodishcha-v-blgariya-e-na-stoynost-43-miliarda-lv
Conclusion: Given all related facts my conclusion is that AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.D.
1. In AFP's Methodology is explicitly written: We apply the same investigative approach and standards of evidence regardless of who has made the claim, and we do not focus on any one candidate, party or website.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
2. Public opinion in Bulgaria is polarized on different issues, among which the central ones in recent years are: policy and measures against corruption, the measures against Covid 19 and the application of vaccines, the war in Ukraine. Political parties and leading political figures differ in their attitudes to the issues mentioned.
The operation points out 13 fact-checks in Bulgarian that show the coverage of players and narratives from across the political spectrum.
It is found that fact-checking has been applied in relation to the communities and political parties that are opposed on the above issues, for. ex. to the "parties of the status quo" (GERB) [1] and in relation to the "parties of change" (PP, Democratic Bulgaria) [2].
Presidential elections took place in Bulgaria in 2021, and the operation debunked false claims about two main candidates [1] [3]
There are posts for both the supporters of restrictions against Covid 19 [4] and the opponents of restrictions and vaccines [5].
Since February 2022, the main topic of the Bulgarian media has been the war in Ukraine and the attitude of the Bulgarian authorities towards it. There are fact-checks dedicated to false claims favouring Russia, but AFP Proveri has debunked false claims about Russia before that [6].
Another hot topic of the Bulgarian media is climate change, green policy, the European Green Deal. This debunk [7] targets unfounded claims on wildlife conservation organizations, and this one [8] - unfounded claims on the mining industry.
Sources:
[1] Анастас Герджиков е призовал да се махне термина "турско робство" от учебниците?Anastas Gerdzhikov called to remove the term "Turkish slavery" from textbooks?
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9PJ9RH-1
[2] Кирил Петков е излъгал за квалификацията си в интернет платформа?/Did Kiril Petkov lie about his qualifications on an internet platform?
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9EJ4B2-1
[3] Това е къщата на Румен Радев във Виена? Is this Rumen Radev's house in Vienna?
https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9CX7BK-1
[4] Твърденията на Атанас Мангъров за броя на починалите от Ковид са подвеждащи/ Atanas Mangerov's claims about the number of deaths from Covid are misleading
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.9WF2TD
[5] Министерството на здравеопазването не наказва доктори, които не успяват да ваксинират пациентите си The Ministry of Health does not penalize doctors who fail to vaccinate their patients
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9QG9PH-1
[6] Съдът в Страсбург е признал правото на България да поиска 22 тона злато от Русия? Has the Strasbourg court recognized Bulgaria's right to demand 22 tons of gold from Russia?
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/http%253A%252F%252Fdoc.afp.com%252F9PC84K-1
[7} Информация във фейсбук за финансирани от ЕС природозащитни проекти е подвеждаща / Information on Facebook about EU-funded environmental projects is misleading
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/informaciya-za-finansirani-ot-es-prirodozashchitni-proekti-koyato-se-spodelya-vv-facebook-e
[8] Злато за 1.5 трилиона евро е било изнесено от България през 2018?Gold worth 1.5 trillion euros was exported from Bulgaria in 2018?
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/celiyat-predpolagaem-razmer-na-zlatnite-nahodishcha-v-blgariya-e-na-stoynost-43-miliarda-lv
Conclusion: Given all related facts my conclusion is that AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.D.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. Е operations must not employ anyone who holds a salaried and/or prominent position in a political party, government, state or public company under the direct control of a political party or government.
The policy of the parent organization, the editorial standards and the facts (no information on violations of the standards) prove that AFP Proveri is in accordance with the requirement of Article 3.1.E.
To the best of my knowledge there are no such contracts.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.E.
The policy of the parent organization, the editorial standards and the facts (no information on violations of the standards) prove that AFP Proveri is in accordance with the requirement of Article 3.1.E.
To the best of my knowledge there are no such contracts.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.E.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
As described in our public methodology page (here in French, here in Bulgarian), when quoting experts we identify "who they work for, what their area of expertise is and any conflicts of interest they may have.”
“AFP journalists should declare any potential conflict of interest in their financial reporting to their bureau or service chief and to the regional editor. They should not cover companies in which they or their families invest directly or that they or their families own.”
In our fact-checks, we note whenever we are covering a claim about a company that AFP has a fact-checking contract with. An example of such a declaration in one of our fact-checks can be found here (French example). We do not have an example of such a declaration in Bulgarian.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. F operations must explicitly address in publications any reasonable conflict of interest or political bias, including from experts or organizations cited.
The editorial standards explicitly require AFP journalists to declare any potential conflict of interest in their financial reporting to their bureau or service chief and to the regional editor. They should not cover companies in which they or their families invest directly or that they or their families own.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
There are not such examples yet in original fact-checks in Bulgarian.
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.F.
The editorial standards explicitly require AFP journalists to declare any potential conflict of interest in their financial reporting to their bureau or service chief and to the regional editor. They should not cover companies in which they or their families invest directly or that they or their families own.
Source: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
There are not such examples yet in original fact-checks in Bulgarian.
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.F.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. G operations must have internal policies barring employees from making partisan statements in the name of the operation or organisation and have procedures in place to take action if they do. Operations take steps to ensure that any advocacy or views on policy issues held by staff are managed in such a way that a reasonable member of the public would not see the organisation’s work as biassed.
Impartiality is a leading principle in the journalism ethics.
AFP’s Editorial standards and best practices bar employees from partisanship generally and especially during elections: „Media coverage of elections is a fundamental element in the democratic process, and AFP journalists have a responsibility to provide impartial coverage and to give a voice to all candidates and political parties. Reporters should not allow their political opinions to influence their work.
Journalists should maintain a professional distance from the candidates whom they are covering and should not develop friendships. [...] Candidates must understand that we cover campaign events on merit and our presence does not guarantee coverage.“
Source:https://www.afp.com/sites/default/files/page-de-base/202301/pdf/22jun2016afpethic2.pdf
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.G.
Impartiality is a leading principle in the journalism ethics.
AFP’s Editorial standards and best practices bar employees from partisanship generally and especially during elections: „Media coverage of elections is a fundamental element in the democratic process, and AFP journalists have a responsibility to provide impartial coverage and to give a voice to all candidates and political parties. Reporters should not allow their political opinions to influence their work.
Journalists should maintain a professional distance from the candidates whom they are covering and should not develop friendships. [...] Candidates must understand that we cover campaign events on merit and our presence does not guarantee coverage.“
Source:https://www.afp.com/sites/default/files/page-de-base/202301/pdf/22jun2016afpethic2.pdf
Conclusion: Given all written policies and related facts AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.G.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. H operations must have internal policies that bar employees from accepting in a professional context any gifts, favours, or services with advantageous conditions that go beyond common social and courtesy items, and have procedures in place to take action if they do.
The ethical standards link to AFP's Editorial standards and best practices document, envisaging as follows:
GIFTS AND HOSPITALITY
AFP journalists should not accept hospitality, gifts, travel, accommodation, tickets, entertainment or other benefits from their sources with the exception of items of nominal value. If it is unavoidable to do so in the pursuit of a story – an invitation to take a corporate
jet to visit a remote factory – the chief editor should be consulted on how to proceed (such as paying a contribution towards the costs). We never accept cash or any form of token or coupon with a monetary value. Any high value objects received as gifts should be declined
with a polite explanation that accepting them would contravene AFP company policy.
Occasional drinks, lunches or dinners with contacts are part and parcel of journalism, but we should invite rather than be invited. Contacts should never receive preferential treatment as a result of their hospitality, nor be led to expect it.
AFP journalists should never receive gifts or promotional material from contacts such as press services at their home address (except for freelancers who work from home).
Any materials such as technology items or cars loaned for test purposes should be returned within 72 hours. Long term, or indefinite, loans are prohibited. Review items, like books, compact discs or video games, may be kept but not sold.
AFP journalists involved in coverage or on other related official duty may accept complimentary tickets or media passes to events.
We do not pay sources for information, but depending on local customs and on special occasions we can give gifts to sources such as AFP souvenirs. We should keep them to items of a nominal value and never give cash.
The ethical standards link to AFP's Editorial standards and best practices document, envisaging as follows:
GIFTS AND HOSPITALITY
AFP journalists should not accept hospitality, gifts, travel, accommodation, tickets, entertainment or other benefits from their sources with the exception of items of nominal value. If it is unavoidable to do so in the pursuit of a story – an invitation to take a corporate
jet to visit a remote factory – the chief editor should be consulted on how to proceed (such as paying a contribution towards the costs). We never accept cash or any form of token or coupon with a monetary value. Any high value objects received as gifts should be declined
with a polite explanation that accepting them would contravene AFP company policy.
Occasional drinks, lunches or dinners with contacts are part and parcel of journalism, but we should invite rather than be invited. Contacts should never receive preferential treatment as a result of their hospitality, nor be led to expect it.
AFP journalists should never receive gifts or promotional material from contacts such as press services at their home address (except for freelancers who work from home).
Any materials such as technology items or cars loaned for test purposes should be returned within 72 hours. Long term, or indefinite, loans are prohibited. Review items, like books, compact discs or video games, may be kept but not sold.
AFP journalists involved in coverage or on other related official duty may accept complimentary tickets or media passes to events.
We do not pay sources for information, but depending on local customs and on special occasions we can give gifts to sources such as AFP souvenirs. We should keep them to items of a nominal value and never give cash.
Source: https://www.afp.com/sites/default/files/page-de-base/202301/pdf/22jun2016afpethic2.pdf
Conclusion: Given all written documents, standards and related facts my conclusion is that AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.H.
Conclusion: Given all written documents, standards and related facts my conclusion is that AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.H.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to Art. 3.1. I operations make available and easily accessible on their website these and any other non-partisanship policies.
As guaranteed by its founding statute [1] AFP speaks with an independent voice free from political, commercial or ideological influence.
These commitments are reflected in AFP’s Charter [2} and editorial standards [3].
Sources:
[1] Modifié par LOI n°2015-433 du 17 avril 2015 - art. 15
accessible here: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000000315388
[2] AFP Charter
accessible here: https://www.afp.com/en/agency/charter
[3] Editorial standards and Ethics
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: Given all written documents, standards and related facts my conclusion is that AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.I.
As guaranteed by its founding statute [1] AFP speaks with an independent voice free from political, commercial or ideological influence.
These commitments are reflected in AFP’s Charter [2} and editorial standards [3].
Sources:
[1] Modifié par LOI n°2015-433 du 17 avril 2015 - art. 15
accessible here: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000000315388
[2] AFP Charter
accessible here: https://www.afp.com/en/agency/charter
[3] Editorial standards and Ethics
accessible here: https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: Given all written documents, standards and related facts my conclusion is that AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.I.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Our organisation does not engage in direct advocacy work.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
No accessible information on engaging AFP Proveri in advocacy work.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.I.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the requirement of Art. 3.1.I.
Article 3.2: Privacy and Safety
In order to be recognised as a verified member of the European Fact-Checking Standards Network (EFCSN), operations must:
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Our newly released and publicly available Fact-checking Stylebook spells out our policy on how to uphold our duty of care as journalists and minimise harm. Below we cite the relevant section of the Stylebook:
« DUTY OF CARE/MINIMISING HARM
As a news agency we have a duty of care to the people we cover, and to minimize harm to them and by extension their families. In some circumstances we may choose to blur the faces or withhold the identity of people featured in a false post if they are wrongly being accused or being held up to ridicule. Likewise for names in the comments section. We should be particularly careful when the fact-check involves minors. »
Security risks are one form of ‘harm’ we consider when making such decisions. For instance, there have been cases when we have decided that exposing the identities of Ukrainian civilians living in war zones could risk retribution. In this fact-check (in German), for example, we decided not to name a local resident of Kremenchuk, Ukraine, who provided us with evidence to debunk Russian claims about the bombing of a mall in their city.
We have several examples of this policy in Bulgarian: Here, as the person in the photos/videos was a prisoner of war, we blurred his face to comply with the Geneva Convention (III) on Prisoners of War, 1949. Here we blurred the faces of people in photos shared with the claim that they show the Uvalde presumed shooter.
We also think carefully before publishing sensitive / graphic images. As is explained in our stylebook, our editors consider many questions when deciding whether to include graphic images in a fact-check, such as: Does it add important understanding to the story? Does the public have a right to know and see what happened? Does it meet your duty to inform as a journalist? Does it simply appeal to morbid curiosity without providing any essential context? Have you considered your duty of care, and ability to minimize harm, to the victim/s and their family?
When we have decided that a graphic image is crucial to the investigation itself, we apply an overlay with a warning message. You can see an example in this French-language article about the corpses found in Bucha, Ukraine.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to the Art. 3.2. А, operations must obscure the image and/or identity of subjects of an investigation when there is a reasonable concern for their safety.
In order to assess the fulfillment of this requirement, two types of sources were used:
the statutory requirements in the AFP rules and, secondly, the implementation of the rules in the Bulgarian language articles.
The AFP Fact-Checking Stylebook provides editorial guidance on fact-checking at Agence France-Presse. The Stylebook explicitly envisages that as a news agency AFP has a duty of care to the people covered, to minimize harm to them and by extension their families. In some circumstances the measures may include blurring the faces or withholding the identity of people featured in a false post if they are wrongly being accused or being held up to ridicule. The rules are mandatory for AFP Proveri. [1]
The practice of AFP Proveri testifies to strict compliance with the requirements for minimizing harm. So for example in an article dated March 31, 2022, entitled "This video is out of date, shows captured Ukrainian soldiers in Donetsk in 2015." as the person in the photos/videos was a prisoner of war, AFP Proveri blurred his face to comply with the Geneva Convention (III) on Prisoners of War, 1949. In another article from 6 June 2022 titled “False claims that photos show the Texas mass murderer are being shared on social media” the operation blurred the faces of people in photos shared with the claim that they show the Uvalde presumed shooter.
As regards the identity of subjects of an investigation when there is a reasonable concern for their safety, the GDPR provisions have been implemented.
Sources:
[1] AFP Fact-Checking Stylebook
[2] "This video is out of date, shows captured Ukrainian soldiers in Donetsk in 2015."
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.327C7YG
[3] “False claims that photos show the Texas mass murderer are being shared on social media”
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32BU3ME
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.2. А.
In order to assess the fulfillment of this requirement, two types of sources were used:
the statutory requirements in the AFP rules and, secondly, the implementation of the rules in the Bulgarian language articles.
The AFP Fact-Checking Stylebook provides editorial guidance on fact-checking at Agence France-Presse. The Stylebook explicitly envisages that as a news agency AFP has a duty of care to the people covered, to minimize harm to them and by extension their families. In some circumstances the measures may include blurring the faces or withholding the identity of people featured in a false post if they are wrongly being accused or being held up to ridicule. The rules are mandatory for AFP Proveri. [1]
The practice of AFP Proveri testifies to strict compliance with the requirements for minimizing harm. So for example in an article dated March 31, 2022, entitled "This video is out of date, shows captured Ukrainian soldiers in Donetsk in 2015." as the person in the photos/videos was a prisoner of war, AFP Proveri blurred his face to comply with the Geneva Convention (III) on Prisoners of War, 1949. In another article from 6 June 2022 titled “False claims that photos show the Texas mass murderer are being shared on social media” the operation blurred the faces of people in photos shared with the claim that they show the Uvalde presumed shooter.
As regards the identity of subjects of an investigation when there is a reasonable concern for their safety, the GDPR provisions have been implemented.
Sources:
[1] AFP Fact-Checking Stylebook
[2] "This video is out of date, shows captured Ukrainian soldiers in Donetsk in 2015."
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.327C7YG
[3] “False claims that photos show the Texas mass murderer are being shared on social media”
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32BU3ME
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.2. А.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
When fact-checking disinformation spread by ordinary social media users, we are conscious to not draw undue attention to their identities when it is not relevant to the investigation. We focus on the message, not the messenger. This means we generally do not name such users in the text of the fact-check or highlight their identity in other ways. While there may be exceptions in cases where we have deemed the user to face a safety risk, or if we have determined they are a minor, generally we do not blur usernames in any screenshots of public social media posts we include in our fact-checks. When the misinformation has been spread by a high-profile figure, or the source is important to telling the story of how the misinformation spread, we will name the source and include relevant background and information about that source in the fact-check.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
According to the Art. 3.2. B the operations take measures to avoid exposing the identity of sources of UGC to undue public scrutiny.
The rule of 3.2.B refers to an analysis of misinformation spread by ordinary social media users.
In these cases, the principle is that the focus of the publication is not on the identity of the people when it is not relevant to the investigation.The text of the fact-check usually does not name such users or highlight their identity in any other way. When the misinformation was spread by a public figure or the source is important to telling the story of the spread of the misinformation, we will name the source and include relevant context and explanations in the fact check.
In these cases, the principle is that the focus of the publication is not on the identity of the people when it is not relevant to the investigation.The text of the fact-check usually does not name such users or highlight their identity in any other way. When the misinformation was spread by a public figure or the source is important to telling the story of the spread of the misinformation, we will name the source and include relevant context and explanations in the fact check.
For example, an article dated March 24, 2023 entitled „False publications claim that the son of a prosecutor from Pernik received a life sentence“ says that "The son of Pernick's former deputy district attorney has not been sentenced to life in prison, as falsely claimed by Internet posts shared hundreds of times on social media since late January 2023."No usernames are specified. [1]
At the same time the usernames in screenshots of public social media posts, included in the fact-checks, are not blurred An example of is the fact check from the March 16, 2023 titled "CNN did not quote Viktor Orbán as saying that Boyko Borisov and Kiril Petkov were bribed to send Bulgarian troops to Ukraine". Facebook user names are visible in the screenshot included in the post [2], It is the same practice in a post titled "Beware of social media posts sharing photos from Kiev with misleading claims about the war in Ukraine," which discusses posts that the horrors and war in Ukraine are exaggerated and people there live normally.[3]
Exceptions are made only when the author has been identified as a minor or it is known that identification would put his safety at risk.
Sources:
[1] „False publications claim that the son of a prosecutor from Pernik received a life sentence“
[2] "CNN did not quote Viktor Orbán as saying that Boyko Borisov and Kiril Petkov were bribed to send Bulgarian troops to Ukraine"
[3] "Beware of social media posts sharing photos from Kiev with misleading claims about the war in Ukraine,"
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.2. B.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
As a rule, we do not mention any personal information that could lead to the harassment and/or doxxing of individuals.
Here is an example of a French fact-check on taxes and bank transactions, including pictures of credit cards and invoices which all hide personal information.
In this Bulgarian story we blurred personal data (personal ID number, date of birth) in documents that we received from a public register in Bulgaria.
Here is an example of a French fact-check on taxes and bank transactions, including pictures of credit cards and invoices which all hide personal information.
In this Bulgarian story we blurred personal data (personal ID number, date of birth) in documents that we received from a public register in Bulgaria.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 3.2. D envisages protection from harassment. The operations should anonymize any personal information that could allow the harassment of persons.
The GDPR provisions have been strictly implemented by AFP Proveri.
As an example could be given the publication titled "The dismissed executive director of the National Revenue Agency, Galya Dimitrova, is not married to the leader of KNSB (the largest trade union organization in Bulgaria)". The conclusion here is that Plamen Dimitrov and Galya Dimitrova are not married, according to a reference in the official public registers that Proveri.AFP made. In the screenshots of the documents, included in the fact check, the personal data, except for the names, are blurred. [1]
Personal data that are not anonymized in violation of the requirements of the GDPR and the Code are not found in fact-checks.
Source:
[1] "The dismissed executive director of the National Revenue Agency, Galya Dimitrova, is not married to the leader of KNSB (the largest trade union organization in Bulgaria)"
[1] "The dismissed executive director of the National Revenue Agency, Galya Dimitrova, is not married to the leader of KNSB (the largest trade union organization in Bulgaria)"
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.2. D.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
As a rule, we do not mention any personal information that could lead to the harassment and/or doxxing of individuals.
Here is an example of a French fact-check on taxes and bank transactions, including pictures of credit cards and invoices which all hide personal information.
In this Bulgarian story we blurred personal data (personal ID number, date of birth) in documents that we received from a public register in Bulgaria.
Here is an example of a French fact-check on taxes and bank transactions, including pictures of credit cards and invoices which all hide personal information.
In this Bulgarian story we blurred personal data (personal ID number, date of birth) in documents that we received from a public register in Bulgaria.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 3.2. D envisages protection from harassment. The operations should anonymize any personal information that could allow the harassment of persons.
The GDPR provisions have been strictly implemented by AFP Proveri.
As an example could be given the publication titled "The dismissed executive director of the National Revenue Agency, Galya Dimitrova, is not married to the leader of KNSB (the largest trade union organization in Bulgaria)". The conclusion here is that Plamen Dimitrov and Galya Dimitrova are not married, according to a reference in the official public registers that Proveri.AFP made. In the screenshots of the documents, included in the fact check, the personal data, except for the names, are blurred. [1]
Personal data that are not anonymized in violation of the requirements of the GDPR and the Code are not found in fact-checks.
Source:
[1] "The dismissed executive director of the National Revenue Agency, Galya Dimitrova, is not married to the leader of KNSB (the largest trade union organization in Bulgaria)"
[1] "The dismissed executive director of the National Revenue Agency, Galya Dimitrova, is not married to the leader of KNSB (the largest trade union organization in Bulgaria)"
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.2. D.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
“If a person or organisation is mentioned, we contact them for their version of events. When appropriate and possible, we contact the source of the claim under investigation to seek further information.”
As a general rule, we seek to contact the source of the claims we are investigating whenever not doing so could compromise the accuracy of the fact-check.
This decision is often made on a case-by-case basis. Examples of cases in which we may choose not to make contact are if we believe doing so could risk harassment to our staff, or if it is not possible to identify the original source of the claim.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 3.2.E refers to the right of reply, which must be granted to affected persons - individuals or organizations - who is the source of the inaccurate claim and/or is the subject of significant criticism or allegations.
The application of this standard can only be assessed on the methodology adopted by the AFP, since there are no cases where the affected persons by fact-checks in Bulgarian have requested the right of reply.
According to the methodology: “If a person or organization is mentioned, we contact them for their version of events. When appropriate and possible, we contact the source of the claim under investigation to seek further information.”[1] This contact is preliminary and at the editorial discretion. The AFP's ten guiding principles stipulate that journalists should never provide a source with a publication for verification (principle 7, sentence 2).[2]
There is a specific section in the standards, devoted to the right of reply:
"COMPLAINTS AND THE RIGHT OF REPLY
When complaints are made about our coverage we should deal with them politely, calmly and promptly, including when we feel the complaint is unjustified. When a complaint is justified we can correct a factual error or offer to quote the aggrieved party in a fresh story --
which does not preclude us from returning to the original source of the story for further comment.
In the case of complaints that touch on potential legal issues, such as libel or breach of law, we should (a) ask the person to submit the complaint in writing and (b) refer the matter to the management for handling by AFP’s legal department.
We must not enter into correspondence with the person concerned beyond acknowledging receipt of their complaint and saying that it has been transferred to the relevant department.
Anything we write or say, however well intentioned, can be used in future legal action against the Agency." [3]
When complaints are made about our coverage we should deal with them politely, calmly and promptly, including when we feel the complaint is unjustified. When a complaint is justified we can correct a factual error or offer to quote the aggrieved party in a fresh story --
which does not preclude us from returning to the original source of the story for further comment.
In the case of complaints that touch on potential legal issues, such as libel or breach of law, we should (a) ask the person to submit the complaint in writing and (b) refer the matter to the management for handling by AFP’s legal department.
We must not enter into correspondence with the person concerned beyond acknowledging receipt of their complaint and saying that it has been transferred to the relevant department.
Anything we write or say, however well intentioned, can be used in future legal action against the Agency." [3]
Source:
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art 3.2. Е.
Best Practices
In addition to the required standards listed above, the Code identifies the following as a best practice that is encouraged but not required to join the EFCSN.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
In 2022 and 2023, a training to handle graphic images was offered to all editorial AFP staff, with examples from all over the world. Mostly based on our own stock of images, this training was largely followed by the members of the fact-checking team, who are often exposed to graphic content when monitoring social networks and platforms.
AFP’s online digital courses on Digital Investigations also includes a module on « dealing with online harassment and staying safe online”. These courses are free and designed for journalists and journalism students, and all journalists at AFP are encouraged to follow them.
AFP has an Editor in Chief especially in charge of Safety and Security, who is particularly focused on ensuring the safety of journalists who are sent on the ground. AFP provides a list of tips and good advice on its intranet for personal care and security when covering traumatic events / situations or to avoid cyber-harassment.
Editors in the Digital Investigations team have general guidelines on what to do if a case of harassment comes up in their team, but these guidelines need to be updated, which is an ambition we have for 2023.
AFP also provides access to Eutelmed, an external, multilingual service to support for mental well-being at work.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Article 3.3: Honest corrections
In order to be recognised as a verified member of the European Fact-Checking Standards Network (EFCSN), operations must:
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
The implementation of this standard in Art. 3.3. Honest corrections can generally be assessed on the basis of the written rules for AFP and AFP Fact Check and the practices for making corrections. Article 3.3.A deals with corrections of non-essential errors, when a correction note is not needed.
There is a special section “Corrections” in the AFP Check methodology. It is explained how to act in case of a factual error in two scenarios: if the text is subject to editing and if the error is so significant that the article must be removed. Any updates, clarifications, or new information added since publication are noted at the end of the articles. There is no notes for only typographical, grammatical or stylistic mistakes.
Users are invited to report if they believe there is a factual error in a post.Correction requests are reviewed by fact checkers in consultation with their regional editors. For violations of the IFCN Code of Principles, the audience can file complaints using the procedure described in the text.
A list of the corrections is published online:
· March 31, 2023 Corrected the paragraph before the last photo, as well as the text below the photo, to indicate how the image was generated;
· January 10, 2023 The third paragraph of the original version of the post was corrected to indicate that Nancy Pelosi was Speaker of the House of Representatives till January 7, 2023, when she was replaced by Kevin McCarthy.
· 22 November 2022 A correction was made to the last sentence of the first paragraph after the third sub-heading to specify that the exhibition was in April 2012, not 2021
· 17 November 2022 A correction was made to the last sentence of the first paragraph after the third sub-heading to specify that the footage shows an exhibition in Moscow
· April 5, 2022. A correction was made to the first subheading
· 16 August 2021 The article has been corrected to clarify that Luca Leger, the author of the photo, is a journalist and not a photographer.
Source:
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.3. – A.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Here are some examples in French and English of how we disseminated corrections in social channels in cases where the original post was not editable.
AFP Proveri has a Facebook Page, but as we only corrected minor errors that did not affect the claim, we never had to highlight this on our Bulgarian social channel.
AFP Proveri has a Facebook Page, but as we only corrected minor errors that did not affect the claim, we never had to highlight this on our Bulgarian social channel.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
To what has been said under the provision of Art. 3.3.A, it can be added that the requirement of 3.3.В is provided in the rules of AFP Proveri. [1]
When the mistake is significant, the correction should be made in the same format and channel as the original so that as far as possible users of the original see the correction and the corrected version.
When the mistake is significant, the correction should be made in the same format and channel as the original so that as far as possible users of the original see the correction and the corrected version.
AFP Proveri has a Facebook Page and mistakes were made there, but they were assessed by the fact-checkers as insignificant, therefore there is no practice in implementing the above rule.
Source:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Source:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.3. В.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Here is an example of an article removed because of such a mistake, in Spanish, with an explanation note. These cases are extremely rare in our editorial history.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
To what has been said under the provision of Art. 3.3.A, it can be added that the requirement of Art. 3.3.C is provided in the rules of AFP Proveri, but there is no such case in Bulgarian fact-checks.
Source:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Source:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.3. С.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 3.3.D requires the addition of any new information to a publication to be mentioned in an update note in the same publication.
This is happening mainly when the fact-checkers are reflecting and analyzing more dynamic processes or when the are obtaining new evidences.
A publication on the military action in Ukraine has been supplemented with new sources on the origin of the false statements and this is expressly noted in the same publication. [1]
Source:
[1] Ukraine's borders are internationally recognized and do not need to be "registered" in the UN
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32497CV
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.3. D.
This is happening mainly when the fact-checkers are reflecting and analyzing more dynamic processes or when the are obtaining new evidences.
A publication on the military action in Ukraine has been supplemented with new sources on the origin of the false statements and this is expressly noted in the same publication. [1]
Source:
[1] Ukraine's borders are internationally recognized and do not need to be "registered" in the UN
https://proveri.afp.com/doc.afp.com.32497CV
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.3. D.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art.3.3.E envisages a corrections policy and a record of the corrections published over the previous year to be available and easily accessible on the website of the operations.
The corrections policy is visible and easily accessible on the webpage of AFP Proveri. On the same page a list of correcions and hyperlinks to them are published.
The corrections policy is visible and easily accessible on the webpage of AFP Proveri. On the same page a list of correcions and hyperlinks to them are published.
Source:
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.3. E.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
A detailed account of how requests for corrections are being assessed is included in the respective policy and is easily accessible on the website of AFP Proveri.
It is explained how the statements to be checked are selected [1]
AFP's fact-checking teams check only facts, not opinions or beliefs, on subjects of public interest.[2]
AFP's fact-checking teams check only facts, not opinions or beliefs, on subjects of public interest.[2]
Correction requests are analyzed by fact checkers in consultation with their regional editors. Requests that are unfounded, abusive, threatening or clearly coordinated spam are not answered.[3]
Sources:
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 3.3. – F.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
A request for corrections can be submitted on the website and/or on the AFP Proveri Facebook page, given the fact that this is the most visited social network in Bulgaria.
The corrections policy is easily accessible, along with the starting point for submitting a claim.
Sources:
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Art. 3.3. G.
Best Practices:
In addition to the required standards listed above, the Code identifies the following as best practices that are encouraged but not required to join the EFCSN.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
/
Article 4.1: Organisational transparency
In order to be recognised as a verified member of the European Fact-Checking Standards Network (EFCSN), operations must:
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.1.A requires transparency of the organizational structure and makes clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.
1. Organizational profile and structure
AFP Proveri is distinct Bulgarian section of the French press agency AFP (Agence France- Presse). [1]
Agence France-Presse (AFP) is a global news agency, delivering fast, accurate, in-depth coverage of the events shaping our world from wars and conflicts to politics, sports, entertainment and the latest breakthroughs in health, science and technology. With 2,900 staff and stringers of 80 nationalities, spread across 165 countries, AFP covers the world 24 hours a day in six languages, delivering the news in video, text, pictures, multimedia and graphics. AFP produces roughly 5.000 text dispatches, 3.000 photos, 100 graphics and 200 videos per day in six languages (French, English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic). AFP’s photo database contains more than 30 million pictures, according the information provided by AFP in LinkedIn. [2]
1. Organizational profile and structure
AFP Proveri is distinct Bulgarian section of the French press agency AFP (Agence France- Presse). [1]
Agence France-Presse (AFP) is a global news agency, delivering fast, accurate, in-depth coverage of the events shaping our world from wars and conflicts to politics, sports, entertainment and the latest breakthroughs in health, science and technology. With 2,900 staff and stringers of 80 nationalities, spread across 165 countries, AFP covers the world 24 hours a day in six languages, delivering the news in video, text, pictures, multimedia and graphics. AFP produces roughly 5.000 text dispatches, 3.000 photos, 100 graphics and 200 videos per day in six languages (French, English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic). AFP’s photo database contains more than 30 million pictures, according the information provided by AFP in LinkedIn. [2]
AFP Fact Check is the world's leading fact-checking operation with more than 100 journalists. AFP Fact Check is a department within Agence France-Presse (AFP).
AFP Proveri is in charge for fact-checks in Bulgarian. [3]
2. Editorial control
AFP's editorial policy is led by Global News Director Phil Chetwynd, News Editor-in-Chief Sophie Huet-Truffem and Deputy News Editor-in-Chief Richard Carter.
Fact-checking at AFP is overseen by the chief editors of digital investigation based at the agency's headquarters in Paris, with regional editors in Beirut, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Montevideo and Washington D.C.. They include:
AFP's editorial policy is led by Global News Director Phil Chetwynd, News Editor-in-Chief Sophie Huet-Truffem and Deputy News Editor-in-Chief Richard Carter.
Fact-checking at AFP is overseen by the chief editors of digital investigation based at the agency's headquarters in Paris, with regional editors in Beirut, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Montevideo and Washington D.C.. They include:
Head of Digital Investigations, Deputy Global Editor-in-Chief: Grégoire Lemarchand
Deputy Chief Editors: Sophie Nicholson and Julie Charpentrat
Regional heads: Rachel Blundy (Asia-Pacific), Leila Macor (Latin America and Spain), Nina Lamparski (Africa), Bronwen Roberts (Europe), Khaled Soubeih (Middle East and North Africa) and Arthur MacMillan (USA and Canada). [4]
Sources
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/za-afp
[2] https://www.linkedin.com/company/afp/
[3] https://proveri.afp.com/zapoznayte-se-s-ekipa
[4] https://factcheck.afp.com/about-afp
[2] https://www.linkedin.com/company/afp/
[3] https://proveri.afp.com/zapoznayte-se-s-ekipa
[4] https://factcheck.afp.com/about-afp
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.A
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Needs more info
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.1.B requires available and easily accessible on their website regularly updated information related to the ownership and legal status of the operation and/or parent organisation – including the names of any people or companies who hold more than 5 percent of the organisation’s shares
There is easily accessible information on parent orgarization AFP:
a) AFP Proveri is distinct Bulgarian section of the French press agency AFP (Agence France- Presse). [1]
b) The parent organization is registered as Agence France- Presse in France. [2]
c) The legal status of the parent organisation is an autonomous entity endowed with civil personality and operating in accordance with commercial rules [3]
d) Agence France-Presse is registered in the Paris Trade and Companies Registrar under number 775 658 354. [4]
Information on owners - the names of any people or companies who hold more than 5 percent of the organization’s shares - is not available.
Given this incompleteness, option "need more information" has been chosen.
Given this incompleteness, option "need more information" has been chosen.
Sources:
Applicant
Needs more info
Date: 20/06/2023
AFP is one of the three global news agencies delivering coverage of events worldwide. After the Second World War, France passed an Act of Parliament in 1957 to establish an “autonomous entity” with its own statutes. The goal was to ensure a free press entity that did not fall under any control and with no owners.
Hence, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital. It is an autonomous entity; however it is a legal sui generis entity subject to French legislation on privately owned companies
AFP has a board of Directors (eventhough they are no shareholders), composed of representatives of the French press, members appointed by various government ministers, representatives of AFP staff, board members appointed by a Higher Council.
Hence, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital. It is an autonomous entity; however it is a legal sui generis entity subject to French legislation on privately owned companies
AFP has a board of Directors (eventhough they are no shareholders), composed of representatives of the French press, members appointed by various government ministers, representatives of AFP staff, board members appointed by a Higher Council.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Needs more info
Date: 21/06/2023
According to the information provided by the candidate, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital.
After this explicit statement I accept that information on legal status and ownership is in compliance with Art. 4.1.A.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.A
After this explicit statement I accept that information on legal status and ownership is in compliance with Art. 4.1.A.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.A
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 21/06/2023
According to the information provided by the candidate, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital.
After this explicit statement I accept that information on legal status and ownership is in compliance with Art. 4.1.A.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.A
After this explicit statement I accept that information on legal status and ownership is in compliance with Art. 4.1.A.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.A
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.1.C envisages transparency of the governance of the operation and/or the parent organization.
AFP Proveri is one of sections in AFP Fact Check, unit in the organizational structure of the French press agency AFP (Agence France- Presse).
The information on governance of the parent organization AFP is law-based and public. [1]
As detailed in the AFP's Articles of Incorporation:
AFP Proveri is one of sections in AFP Fact Check, unit in the organizational structure of the French press agency AFP (Agence France- Presse).
The information on governance of the parent organization AFP is law-based and public. [1]
As detailed in the AFP's Articles of Incorporation:
a) The supervisory body is the Supreme Council.
b) The Board of Directors, is responsible for the management of the Agency and elects its Chief Executive Officer.The Board consists of Chairman and CEO Fabrice Fries, as well as five representatives of the French press, three government representatives from the Ministries of Culture, Foreign Affairs and the Economy of France, two members from the French audiovisual sector, three members elected by the employees of AFP, and five external experts selected by the Agency's High Council.
c) The annual financial report is reviewed by a finance committee.
The list of members of the Supreme Council, the Board of Directors and the Finance Committee is published on the website [2]
The AFP Executive Committee, which manages the day-to-day operations of the agency, is led by the Chairman and Chief Executive (currently Fabrice Fries), the Global Director of News (currently Phil Chetwynd) and the Managing Director (currently Delilah Zane).
The full organizational chart of the executive committee is published on the website. [3]
Sources
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/za-afp
[2] https://www.afp.com/fr/lagence/propos/les-gouvernances
[3] https://www.afp.com/en/agency/about/management-team
[2] https://www.afp.com/fr/lagence/propos/les-gouvernances
[3] https://www.afp.com/en/agency/about/management-team
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1.C
Proof of registration/legal status:
Art. 4.1.D. requires provision of proof of the ownership, legal status and governance of the organization.
There is no information on ownership available, see also 4.1.B -
Information on owners - the names of any people or companies who hold more than 5 percent of the organization’s shares - is not available.
Given this incompleteness, option "need more information" has been chosen.
Proof of ownership:
Proof of governance structure:
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Needs more info
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.1.D. requires provision of proof of the ownership, legal status and governance of the organization.
There is no information on ownership available, see also 4.1.B -
Information on owners - the names of any people or companies who hold more than 5 percent of the organization’s shares - is not available.
Given this incompleteness, option "need more information" has been chosen.
Applicant
Needs more info
Date: 20/06/2023
AFP is one of the three global news agencies delivering coverage of events worldwide. After the Second World War, France passed an Act of Parliament in 1957 to establish an “autonomous entity” with its own statutes. The goal was to ensure a free press entity that did not fall under any control and with no owners.
Hence, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital. It is an autonomous entity; however it is a legal sui generis entity subject to French legislation on privately owned companies
AFP has a board of Directors (eventhough they are no shareholders), composed of representatives of the French press, members appointed by various government ministers, representatives of AFP staff, board members appointed by a Higher Council.
Hence, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital. It is an autonomous entity; however it is a legal sui generis entity subject to French legislation on privately owned companies
AFP has a board of Directors (eventhough they are no shareholders), composed of representatives of the French press, members appointed by various government ministers, representatives of AFP staff, board members appointed by a Higher Council.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 21/06/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 21/06/2023
According to the information provided by the candidate, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital.
After this explicit statement I accept that information on legal status and ownership is in compliance with Art. 4.1.D.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.D
After this explicit statement I accept that information on legal status and ownership is in compliance with Art. 4.1.D.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.D
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Needs more info
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.1.D. requires provision of proof of the ownership, legal status and governance of the organization.
For legal status see 4.1.B
For governance see 4.1.C
There is no information on ownership available.
For legal status see 4.1.B
For governance see 4.1.C
There is no information on ownership available.
Applicant
Needs more info
Date: 20/06/2023
AFP is one of the three global news agencies delivering coverage of events worldwide. After the Second World War, France passed an Act of Parliament in 1957 to establish an “autonomous entity” with its own statutes. The goal was to ensure a free press entity that did not fall under any control and with no owners.
Hence, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital. It is an autonomous entity; however it is a legal sui generis entity subject to French legislation on privately owned companies
AFP has a board of Directors (eventhough they are no shareholders), composed of representatives of the French press, members appointed by various government ministers, representatives of AFP staff, board members appointed by a Higher Council.
Hence, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital. It is an autonomous entity; however it is a legal sui generis entity subject to French legislation on privately owned companies
AFP has a board of Directors (eventhough they are no shareholders), composed of representatives of the French press, members appointed by various government ministers, representatives of AFP staff, board members appointed by a Higher Council.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Needs more info
Date: 21/06/2023
According to the information provided by the candidate, AFP has no shareholders nor share capital.
After this explicit statement I accept that information on legal status and ownership is in compliance with Art. 4.1.A.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.D
After this explicit statement I accept that information on legal status and ownership is in compliance with Art. 4.1.A.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in Art. 4.1.D
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
See Art. 4.1.C
AFP Proveri is one of sections in AFP Fact Check, unit in the organizational structure of the French press agency AFP (Agence France- Presse).
The information on governance of the parent organization AFP is law-based and public. [1]
As detailed in the AFP's Articles of Incorporation:
AFP Proveri is one of sections in AFP Fact Check, unit in the organizational structure of the French press agency AFP (Agence France- Presse).
The information on governance of the parent organization AFP is law-based and public. [1]
As detailed in the AFP's Articles of Incorporation:
a) The supervisory body is the Supreme Council.
b) The Board of Directors, is responsible for the management of the Agency and elects its Chief Executive Officer.The Board consists of Chairman and CEO Fabrice Fries, as well as five representatives of the French press, three government representatives from the Ministries of Culture, Foreign Affairs and the Economy of France, two members from the French audiovisual sector, three members elected by the employees of AFP, and five external experts selected by the Agency's High Council.
c) The annual financial report is reviewed by a finance committee.
The list of members of the Supreme Council, the Board of Directors and the Finance Committee is published on the website [2]
The AFP Executive Committee, which manages the day-to-day operations of the agency, is led by the Chairman and Chief Executive (currently Fabrice Fries), the Global Director of News (currently Phil Chetwynd) and the Managing Director (currently Delilah Zane).
The full organizational chart of the executive committee is published on the website. [3]
Sources
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Here are links to our "About AFP" page, in French and in Bulgarian, which details our editorial structure, as well as our "Meet the Team" page, in French and in Bulgarian, which includes the biographies of all fact-checking editorial staff.
These pages are also available in all our other languages.
These pages are also available in all our other languages.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.1.E. requires regularly updated information about the identity of the editors or decision makers behind the operation, including any relevant previous roles to be available and easily accessible on the website of the operation.
There is a presentation of editorial leadership in AFP Fact Check on the website of AFP Proveri.
Fact-checking at AFP is overseen by editors-in-chief of digital investigations based at the agency's headquarters in Paris, and by regional editors in Beirut, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Montevideo and Washington. Editors-in-chief, deputy editors-in-chief and regional managers are indicated by name, and the information is renewed and updated. [1]
There is one journalist in charge of fact checking activities in Bulgarian - Rossen Bossev, Bulgarian, prominent Bulgarian journalist. His name is explicitly indicated on page "Meet the team". [2]
In addition, the journalists liaise with regional editors throughout the fact-checking process. Editors discuss claims and proposed fact-checking articles with journalists, assess and explain what evidence will be needed, and in some cases edit the article before publication.[3]
Sources:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/za-afp
[2] https://proveri.afp.com/zapoznayte-se-s-ekipa
[3] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1. E
There is a presentation of editorial leadership in AFP Fact Check on the website of AFP Proveri.
Fact-checking at AFP is overseen by editors-in-chief of digital investigations based at the agency's headquarters in Paris, and by regional editors in Beirut, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Montevideo and Washington. Editors-in-chief, deputy editors-in-chief and regional managers are indicated by name, and the information is renewed and updated. [1]
There is one journalist in charge of fact checking activities in Bulgarian - Rossen Bossev, Bulgarian, prominent Bulgarian journalist. His name is explicitly indicated on page "Meet the team". [2]
In addition, the journalists liaise with regional editors throughout the fact-checking process. Editors discuss claims and proposed fact-checking articles with journalists, assess and explain what evidence will be needed, and in some cases edit the article before publication.[3]
Sources:
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/za-afp
[2] https://proveri.afp.com/zapoznayte-se-s-ekipa
[3] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1. E
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.1.F envisages transparency of staff, involved in the fact-checking operation’s editorial output, including any relevant previous roles.
AFP Proveri is a section of AFP Fact Check, dealing with content in Bulgarian language. On the page "Meet the team" all members of the team are presented.
Rossen Bossev is a reporter, prominent Bulgarian journaist. He monitors disinformation in Bulgaria as a member of the team od AFP Fact Check.
Before joining AFP in 2021, for 15 years he worked as a journalist for the weekly Capital, covering the judiciary and human rights.
Rossen Bossev is an investigative journalist with many critical materials and publications. He is very active in training aimed to provide media professionals and content creators with the knowledge and tools required to use data for evidence-based reporting.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1. F
AFP Proveri is a section of AFP Fact Check, dealing with content in Bulgarian language. On the page "Meet the team" all members of the team are presented.
Rossen Bossev is a reporter, prominent Bulgarian journaist. He monitors disinformation in Bulgaria as a member of the team od AFP Fact Check.
Before joining AFP in 2021, for 15 years he worked as a journalist for the weekly Capital, covering the judiciary and human rights.
Rossen Bossev is an investigative journalist with many critical materials and publications. He is very active in training aimed to provide media professionals and content creators with the knowledge and tools required to use data for evidence-based reporting.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1. F
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art.4.1.G requires statement setting out the operation’s mission, values and internal guidelines in place to protect its independence.
AFP Proveri has published information on its mission, values [1] and ethical standards [2].
Sources
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2] https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1. G
AFP Proveri has published information on its mission, values [1] and ethical standards [2].
Sources
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/kak-rabotim
[2] https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1. G
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Our "About AFP" page is available in French and in Bulgarian. These pages link back to the law defining AFP’s bylaws.
This page is available in all languages.
This page is available in all languages.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art 4.1 H requires all bylaws that govern the members' behavior to be available and easily accessible.
AFP Proveri provides access to the AFP’s founding statute [1], the AFP's Charter [2} the Editorial and Ethical Rules [3] and Fact Checking Stylebook [4]
Sources:
[1] https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/LEGITEXT000006068171
[2] https://www.afp.com/en/agency/charter
[3] https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
[4] https://factcheck.afp.com/afp-fact-checking-stylebook
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1. H
AFP Proveri provides access to the AFP’s founding statute [1], the AFP's Charter [2} the Editorial and Ethical Rules [3] and Fact Checking Stylebook [4]
Sources:
[1] https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/LEGITEXT000006068171
[2] https://www.afp.com/en/agency/charter
[3] https://proveri.afp.com/redakcionni-i-etichni-standarti-na-afp
[4] https://factcheck.afp.com/afp-fact-checking-stylebook
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.1. H
Article 4.2: Financial transparency and conflicts of interest
In order to be recognised as a verified member of the European Fact-Checking Standards Network (EFCSN), organisations or parent organisations must:
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.2.A requires disclosure of all income sources contributing 1% or 5.000 euros (whichever the higher), from the most recent annual accounts when joining and the last two annual accounts when renewing membership, to external assessors and the Governance Body.
AFP provided a list of all income sources contributing 1% or 5.000 euros (whichever the higher)- respectively nine public and private entities:
Etat - Ministère de la Culture
Google
Meta
Radio France
Groupe TF1
Jiji Press
Getty
France TV
France Médias Monde
The provision does not require the external appraiser to be provided with information about the exact amount of contributions.
The legal basis of the income are various types of contracts for commercial activities, education and training, copyrights, etc.
For these reasons, I accept the implementation of Article 4.2.A.
Sources:
List of sources, provided by the parent organization AFP
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. A
AFP provided a list of all income sources contributing 1% or 5.000 euros (whichever the higher)- respectively nine public and private entities:
Etat - Ministère de la Culture
Meta
Radio France
Groupe TF1
Jiji Press
Getty
France TV
France Médias Monde
The provision does not require the external appraiser to be provided with information about the exact amount of contributions.
The legal basis of the income are various types of contracts for commercial activities, education and training, copyrights, etc.
For these reasons, I accept the implementation of Article 4.2.A.
Sources:
List of sources, provided by the parent organization AFP
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. A
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art.4.2.B requires transparency of funding, including overall annual income of the organization and main sources of income.
AFP generates revenue from a mix of sources, such as media clients, online platforms and the French state.
AFP generates revenue from a mix of sources, such as media clients, online platforms and the French state.
In 2021, AFP reported a turnover of €309.5 million. [1]
A breakdown of AFP’s major funding sources is published also, including:
a) French state funding. AFP has a financial contract with the French state that is divided between a commercial contract to supply AFP services to French government departments and missions abroad, and compensation for the cost of the Agency's mission of public interest. This is detailed in the 1957 statute that guarantees AFP’s independence from state or other influences.
b) Media clients. AFP receives revenue from thousands of media clients around the globe which subscribe to AFP’s various text, multimedia, photo, video and graphics news wires. Examples of clients in Europe include media organisations such as the BBC, Brut, Deutsche Welle, France Télévisions, Funke Mediengruppe, Le Monde, Rai, Tamedia, The Times and Unidad Editorial. In the Americas, AFP's news wire clients include Caracol TV, Infobae, El Comercio, The New York Times and Radio-Canada among others. Al Jazeera, Al Arabiya, Al-Nahar and Sky News Arabia are examples of clients in the Middle East region, while Radiodiffusion Télévision Ivoirienne, Nation Media Group and Arise News are some of AFP’s clients in Africa. In Asia-Pacific, AFP media clients include South China Morning Post, SPH Media, Mediacorp, The Times of India, NHK and News Corp, to name a few.
c) European Union. Since 2021, AFP has been increasingly involved in collaborative projects between European media, researchers and other experts that are co-financed by the European Commission and other European institutions, to fight disinformation.
d) others - Google, Meta etc.
c) European Union. Since 2021, AFP has been increasingly involved in collaborative projects between European media, researchers and other experts that are co-financed by the European Commission and other European institutions, to fight disinformation.
d) others - Google, Meta etc.
Sources:
https://proveri.afp.com/za-afp
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. B
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art 4.2.C requires information on mechanisms and measures aimed at protection of independence in context of funding and possible conflicts of interest.
a) with regard to French state funding, the measures are detailed in the 1957 statute that guarantees AFP’s independence from state or other influences.
b) with regard to European Union, the contracts with the European Union include the right of the AFP not to consider either the information or the results of scientific research with the possible opinion of the funding agency.
c) with regard to media, platforms and other commercial entities - on the website is explicitly emphasized that "AFP exercises strict editorial independence when fulfilling the terms of all contracts."
a) with regard to French state funding, the measures are detailed in the 1957 statute that guarantees AFP’s independence from state or other influences.
b) with regard to European Union, the contracts with the European Union include the right of the AFP not to consider either the information or the results of scientific research with the possible opinion of the funding agency.
c) with regard to media, platforms and other commercial entities - on the website is explicitly emphasized that "AFP exercises strict editorial independence when fulfilling the terms of all contracts."
Sources
[1] https://proveri.afp.com/za-afp
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. C
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
We do not have unpaid significant commitments made to other organisations.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.2.D envisages transparency of unpaid significant commitments.
AFP does not have unpaid significant commitments and established mechanisms at work do not allow such a hypothesis.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. D
AFP does not have unpaid significant commitments and established mechanisms at work do not allow such a hypothesis.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. D
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
Our organisation does not publish sponsored content.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.2.E requires transparency of sponsorship and sponsored content.
AFP Proveri does not publish sponsored content.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. E
AFP Proveri does not publish sponsored content.
Conclusion: AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. E
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
No goods or services reach this threshold.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.2.F requires transparency of goods and services they receive from external sources, including paid subscriptions or free access to tools, software and/or advertising, that make a material difference to their finances (5% of net income).
AFP Proveri does not have services or goods in this category, according to the attached information.
Conclusion AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. F
AFP Proveri does not have services or goods in this category, according to the attached information.
Conclusion AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. F
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023
No goods or services reach this threshold.
Nelly Ognyanova (assessor)
Compliant
Date: 06/05/2023
Art. 4.2.F requires transparency of goods and services they receive from external sources, including paid subscriptions or free access to tools, software and/or advertising, that make a material difference to their finances (5% of net income).
AFP Proveri does not have services or goods in this category, according to the attached information.
Conclusion AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. F
AFP Proveri does not have services or goods in this category, according to the attached information.
Conclusion AFP Proveri meets the criteria in the Chapter 4.2. F
Best Practices
In addition to the required standards listed above, the Code identifies the following as a best practice that is encouraged but not required to join the EFCSN.
Applicant
Date: 03/02/2023