1. Policy Statement

At Kabes Media, our storytelling is grounded in listening, respect, and integrity. This Code of Ethics sets out the principles and standards of behaviour we expect from everyone who represents our organisation — in the field, online, on camera, and off.

2. Core Principles

Integrity in Communication: We do not fabricate, misrepresent, or sensationalise stories. All narratives must be fact-checked, consented to, and ethically presented. Participants must be fully informed of the purpose and scope of their involvement.

Respect for Dignity and Difference: We treat all individuals — regardless of gender, caste, class, religion, region, age, ability, or sexuality — with equal respect. No visual or narrative should demean, exploit, or stereotype its subject.

Informed Consent and Representation: Voluntary, informed consent must be obtained from individuals and communities before filming or documenting. Covert filming is not undertaken without strong ethical or legal justification and explicit approval from organisational leadership.

Intellectual Property and Credit: Every collaborator must be appropriately credited. Use of stock, archival, or third-party content must comply with applicable licensing and attribution requirements.

Safe and Inclusive Environments: Bullying, harassment, intimidation, and exclusionary behaviour will not be tolerated in any working environment. Team members should report concerns to ethics@kabesmedia.com.

3. Content Guidelines

Avoid re-enactments unless clearly disclosed. Use subtitles and translations that retain context and nuance. Avoid framing individuals as victims unless central to the story’s truth and their dignity is preserved. Do not extract or amplify trauma without clear editorial justification. Never publish imagery involving minors without guardian consent.

4. Digital Conduct

Team members must not share raw, unreleased, or confidential content on personal platforms without explicit permission. All communication with stakeholders must reflect professionalism and empathy. Passwords, login credentials, and confidential materials must be securely stored and not shared.

5. Reporting

To report a breach or seek ethical guidance: ethics@kabesmedia.com. All reports will be handled confidentially and investigated fairly. Retaliation against anyone who reports in good faith is strictly prohibited.

6. Accountability

Violations of this Code may result in verbal or written warnings, project reassignment or temporary suspension, contract termination, or removal from the Kabes Media collaborator network.

7. Review

This Code will be reviewed and updated annually. All staff and collaborators must re-acknowledge the policy as part of their ongoing engagement with Kabes Media.

Policy Owner: Director, Kabes Media
Ethics Contact: ethics@kabesmedia.com