Azerbaijan introduces AI-related principle into journalists' code of ethics
Azerbaijan is introducing new ethical guidelines governing the use of artificial intelligence in journalism, with a focus on editorial accountability, transparency, human oversight and the protection of personal information.
Mushfig Alasgarli, deputy chairman of the Azerbaijan Press Council, said work is underway to establish a sixth principle addressing the use of AI in media organizations, APA reports.
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According to Alasgarli, the existing code of professional ethics for Azerbaijani journalists consists of five principles, while the proposed sixth principle will establish standards for the responsible application of artificial intelligence in editorial activities.
Under the new provisions, media organizations will be required to adopt internal policies regulating the use of AI systems in their newsrooms.
These policies must clearly define the purposes and limitations of AI applications, establish fact-checking procedures and specify editorial responsibilities for AI-assisted content.
News organizations will also be expected to provide opportunities for journalists to develop the skills necessary to use artificial intelligence technologies responsibly.
The principle emphasizes that AI systems must not replace journalists' professional judgment, editorial independence or human supervision.
All content prepared with AI assistance must undergo verification by journalists before publication, including checks on factual accuracy, the reliability of sources and the overall integrity of the material.
Responsibility for published content will remain with journalists and editorial teams, regardless of whether artificial intelligence tools were involved in its preparation.
The proposed rules also place particular emphasis on transparency in the creation and distribution of AI-generated material.
Media outlets must ensure that audiences can clearly identify and understand content created, modified or substantially shaped using artificial intelligence.
AI-generated photographs, audio recordings, videos and other materials that could potentially mislead audiences must be appropriately labeled, with information provided about their origin.
The new ethical principle will also require compliance with copyright protections, the confidentiality of personal information and journalistic sources, respect for human dignity and safeguards against discrimination.
The initiative is intended to establish clear professional standards for the growing use of artificial intelligence in Azerbaijan's media sector while preserving editorial responsibility and public trust in journalism.