MossRates Code of Conduct & Publishing Standards
1. Purpose
This Code sets out the standards that guide MossRates in all communications, whether online or offline. Its goal is to ensure that our work remains factual, transparent, and trustworthy while protecting the rights and dignity of our community.
We believe in strong, independent voices — but also in responsibility, fairness, and accuracy.
2. Core Principles
Accuracy first → We publish only information that can be reasonably verified. Where facts are uncertain, we clearly state so.
Transparency → Sources, context, and intentions are shared openly wherever possible.
Fairness & respect → Content avoids discriminatory, inflammatory, or racial language.
Non-political → MossRates does not endorse political parties, candidates, or campaigns. Our advocacy is issue-based, not partisan.
Community focus → Our communications aim to benefit Mossel Bay residents as a whole, regardless of background, affiliation, or belief.
3. Content Standards
Fact-checking → All articles and updates must be reviewed for factual accuracy before publication.
Balance → Where possible, more than one perspective is acknowledged, especially on sensitive issues.
Tone → Strong, passionate advocacy is welcome — but personal attacks, inflammatory rhetoric, or hate speech are not.
Corrections → If errors are discovered, they will be corrected transparently with a note of amendment.
4. Digital Conduct
Respectful engagement → Members, partners, and the public are encouraged to contribute, but comments/posts that are racist, sexist, defamatory, or abusive will be moderated.
Data protection → Personal information shared by members or residents will not be published without consent (see our [Privacy Policy]).
Non-commercial use → MossRates’ digital platforms are for civic and community purposes, not for party politics or unrelated business promotion.
5. Independence & Non-Liability
Partnering with MossRates does not mean endorsement of our positions. Each partner remains fully independent.
Content published by MossRates reflects the organization’s collective stance, not individual members or affiliates.
Opinions expressed will always be grounded in verifiable facts, but MossRates is not liable for external links or third-party submissions.
6. Accountability
Reporting issues → Residents who spot errors, unfair reporting, or biased content can contact us directly via [Contact Form / Email].
Review process → The Council reviews this Code annually to ensure it remains fair, relevant, and effective.
7. Closing Note
Our commitment is simple: to inform, to advocate, and to hold power accountable without fear or favour. This Code is not here to restrict voices — it is here to protect credibility, fairness, and the trust of the community we serve.