Media Code of Ethics
& Editorial Standards

Purpose

This Code establishes the ethical principles and editorial standards governing all content created, published, licensed, and distributed by Images.mv.

Images.mv is committed to responsible, accurate, culturally respectful and lawful visual journalism that serves the public interest and protects the dignity of individuals and communities of the Maldives.

Accuracy & Authenticity

• All images and videos must reflect real events and factual contexts.
• Misleading staging, manipulation, or misrepresentation is prohibited.
• Editing is permitted only for technical correction and must not alter factual meaning.

Fairness & Non-Discrimination

Images.mv does not tolerate content that promotes:

All individuals must be portrayed fairly and respectfully.

Privacy & Consent

• Personal privacy shall be respected.
• Consent must be obtained for private individuals unless the event is of public interest.
• Images of children require parental/guardian consent except in public news events.
• Sensitive situations (accidents, grief, medical emergencies) must be handled with dignity.

Child Protection

• No exploitation, endangerment or harmful depiction of minors.
• Child identities shall be protected in sensitive cases.
• No sexualized or inappropriate imagery involving minors.

Cultural & Religious Sensitivity

• Content must respect Maldivian Islamic values, traditions and cultural heritage.
• No imagery shall mock or disrespect religious practices, national symbols, or cultural customs.

Independence & Conflict of Interest

• Editorial decisions shall not be influenced by political, financial or personal interests.
• Contributors must disclose conflicts of interest.
• Sponsored or paid content must be clearly labeled.

Copyright & Intellectual Property

• Only licensed or original content shall be published.
• Copyright infringement is prohibited.
• All contributors must respect Images.mv licensing policies.

Corrections & Accountability

• Verified errors will be corrected promptly.
• Complaints shall be investigated fairly and transparently.
• Images.mv will cooperate with MMB and lawful authorities.

Contributor Responsibilities

All photographers, videographers, editors and contributors must:

• Follow this Code
• Adhere to ethical journalism practices
• Respect clients, subjects and the public

Enforcement

Violation of this Code may result in content removal, termination of contracts, and legal action.

Adoption

This Code of Ethics & Editorial Standards is adopted by Images.mv and applies to all staff, freelancers, contributors and partners.