Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) – Local Voices Liberia Fact Checking Desk
Local Voices Liberia subscribes to the Five Code Principles of the International Fact Checking Network (IFCN). These basic principles are commitment to non-partisanship and fairness, commitment to standards and transparency of sources, commitment to transparency of funding and organization, and commitment to standards and transparency of methodology, and a commitment to an open and honest correction process.
As provided by these international fact checking principles, LVL hereby develops this Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), which may also be referred to as LVL Standard method of fact checking.
Editorial Authority
Local Voices Liberia Fact Checking Desk maintains full editorial independence, ensuring all content is produced based on rigorous fact-checking standards. Our team adheres to ethical journalism practices, prioritizing accuracy, transparency, and accountability in reporting. Decisions about the publication are solely guided by the commitment to factual integrity and public interest, free from any external influence or bias.
All reports by fact checkers are submitted to the Desk Coordinator who reviews the work with the fact checker by double checking sources. After this, the draft is shared with the Editor, who does a review and share with the fact checker for a join review before publication of the report.
We ensure that all of our reports are based on credible evidence — authoritative or credible (expert) sources.
Editorial Independence
Local Voices Liberia (LVL) Fact-Checking Desk is committed to providing accurate, unbiased, and reliable information to the public by upholding the five core principles of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN). Our mission is to combat misinformation and ensure that the public has access to verified facts, especially on issues that impact their lives and communities.
Non-Partisanship
We pride ourselves on maintaining strict neutrality in our fact-checking process. We operate independently of any political party, candidate, or agenda. Our commitment is solely to the truth, without favor or prejudice toward any political ideology or group.
Independence from Political Funding
To safeguard our objectivity, we do not accept funding from politicians, political parties, or businesses with political interests. This policy ensures that our fact-checking work remains free from external influence, allowing us to pursue the truth wherever it may lead.
Political Neutrality of Fact-Checkers
All LVL fact-checkers are held to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. To avoid any potential conflicts of interest, LVL Fact-Checkers are prohibited from engaging in any political activities. This includes holding political office, campaigning for candidates, or publicly supporting any political cause. By adhering to these principles, we ensure that our work remains credible and trustworthy.
LVL Fact Checking Desk is dedicated to transparency and accuracy. We are here to serve the public, ensuring that the facts are clear, verifiable, and free from bias.