The IFCN welcomes new applications to its Code of Principles beginning Jan. 16, 2024. Our website is currently under renovation, so new signatories should begin the application process by emailing their interest to info@ifcn.org with "New Signatory" in the subject line.

211 Check

Organization: 211 Check
Applicant: Emmanuel Bida Thomas
Assessor: Rose Lukalo

Background

BACKGROUND

211 Check is a relatively young initiative - from the world's newest country - that is clearly taking the right steps to establish itself as a leading African fact checking unit. The 211 Check website answers all key requirements for becoming an IFCN signatory including fact checks that address relevant concerns. While there is still room for growth in fact checking the 211 Check team have demonstrated interest in understanding and adhering to The IFCN Code of Principles and have been most responsive to the assessment process and to queries and concerns raised along the way.

Assessment Conclusion

211 Check is compliant with all the criteria assessed and is recommended for signatory status.

on 12-Apr-2022 (1 year ago)

Rose Lukalo assesses application as Compliant

Section 1: Eligibility to be a signatory

To be eligible to be a signatory, applicants must meet these six criteria

  • 1.1 The applicant is a legally registered organization, or a distinct team or unit within a legally registered organization, and details of this are easily found on its website.
  • 1.2 The team, unit or organization is set up exclusively for the purpose of fact-checking.
  • 1.3 The applicant has published an average of at least one fact check a week over the course of the six months prior to the date of application. For applicants from countries with at least 5 or more verified signatories need to have at least a fact check a week over the twelve months of publishing track. Consult to factchecknet@poynter.org for confirmation.
  • 1.4 On average, at least 75% of the applicant’s fact checks focus on claims related to issues that, in the view of the IFCN, relate to or could have an impact on the welfare or well-being of individuals, the general public or society.
  • 1.5 The applicant’s editorial output is not, in the view of the IFCN, controlled by the state, a political party or politician.
  • 1.6 If the organization receives funding from local or foreign state or political sources, it provides a statement on its site setting out to the satisfaction of the IFCN, how it ensures its funders do not influence the findings of its reports.

Criteria 1.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please explain where on your website you set out information about your organization’s legal status and how this complies with criteria. Attach a link to the relevant page of your website.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

211 Check is a flagship project of DEFY HATE NOW (DHN) an NNGO fully registered with the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), the body charged with registration of nonprofits in South Sudan. Our "About Us" on the 211 Check website clearly states that "211CHECK is managed and run by DEFYHATENOW South Sudan, an NGO registered in South Sudan with a registration number 2285." We have also updated the information which will be reflected on the website soon. Find the updated version here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PR99ujmghkfdPlD7xNcKhSah58SKpk-X4nXqjFwRIRo/edit?usp=sharing

Files Attached
picture_as_pdf DEFY HATE NOW Certif... (1 MB)
Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

UPDATE 7/10/2022 - In response to communication regarding the concerns raised (see below) the necessary update regarding registration status is now included on the 211 Check website.

211 Check is an initiative established by the community based organization -  Defy Hate Now. Registration number 2285. (https://211check.org/about-us/). The name of the registration authority - National Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) an agency of the government of South Sudan - is missing from the 211 Check website but indicated in the application. A copy of the registration certificate is attached to the application. Registration details are not on the parent CBO website.



done_all 1.1 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 1.2
Proof you meet criteria
Please answer the following questions – (see notes in Guidelines for Application on how to answer)

 1. When and why was your fact-checking operation started?
 2. How many people work or volunteer in the organization and what are their roles?
 3. What different activities does your organization carry out?
 4. What are the goals of your fact-checking operation over the coming year?

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

211 Check is South Sudan’s first and only independent fact-checking and information verification flagship project established in 2020 to counter COVID-19 dis/misinformation, but since then, the initiative has continued to grow in its scope of work. The editorial structure of 211 Check constitutes seven professional staff at the different levels of Chief Editor who is the team leader, Managing Editor, Associate Editor, Fact-checker, Data Analyst, Media Monitor and Graphics Designer. The activities we do include media monitoring, fact-checking, information verification and media information literacy through training and webinars. Our goals this year are: applying to become a signatory at the IFCN, strengthening our team capacity and reaching more content creators with our media literacy program. Read more here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PR99ujmghkfdPlD7xNcKhSah58SKpk-X4nXqjFwRIRo/edit?usp=sharing and https://211check.org/team/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

UPDATE 7/10/2022 - In response to feedback on need to align explanation as to why 211 Check was formed (see below) the necessary update has been made.

Need to align information on the website and the application to answer why the organization was formed. Application says it was established to respond to COVID-19 misinformation but website indicates - 211 Check was established as one of a series of initiatives implemented by #defyhatenow in regions affected by conflict - including refugee settlements - with the goal of raising awareness on the impact of hate speech online and offline. 

No explicit statement on the website about the establishment date although the application indicates established in 2020. 

Seven (7) team members  - Photos and bios of 1 female, 5 male on website. Roles are explained clearly on the website (https://211check.org/211-check-editorial-structure/) with exception of the graphics designer (missing from website).

Activities are not clearly indicated on the website but those indicated in the application do correlate closely with objectives published on the site including 1) publishing fact-checked articles/reports in South Sudan. 2) editorial support for training and capacity development for fact-checking by South Sudanese journalists, bloggers, and content creators.

Goals for the next year are clearly set out in the application - not published on the website.



done_all 1.2 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 1.3
Proof you meet criteria
- The applicant has published an average of at least one fact check a week over the course of the six months prior to the date of application.
- For applicants from countries with at least 5 or more verified signatories need to have at least a fact check a week over the twelve months of publishing track.
- Consult to factchecknet@poynter.org for confirmation.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

At the time of rendering our application for the first time, we have had at least a fact-check a week on average. However, from late May this year, our website has run into technical glitches that are being solved. Read our fact-checks here: https://211check.org/fact-checks/ and here: https://211check.org/data-stories/ Our website should be fully up by the end of this month and we commit to write articles as expected of us.

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

UPDATE 7/10/2022 - I have been provided with adequate access to assess fact-checks and I am satisfied that the applicant is compliant and actively addressing the concerns raised previously; updates are being posted to the website and the process is on-going . 

I am unable to access fact-checks dating before February 2022 as the page links at the bottom of the website page do not seem to work. Additionally fact-checking appears to have slowed to two articles published in May 2022 and then stopped.

Fact-checked data stories on the site date back to November 30, 2021, Publication of these on the website has also stopped after May 2022. 


done_all 1.3 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 1.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous three months. No additional information required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous three months:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Many of the fact-checks posted to the website address scams. The use of altered images and images used out of context is also prevalent. At least 75% of the fact-checks published over the three months prior to the application address issues that could impact the wellbeing of individuals, the general public and society. The applicant is compliant in this regard.


done_all 1.4 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 1.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please explain any commercial, financial and/or institutional relationship your organization has to the state, politicians or political parties in the country or countries you cover. Also explain funding or support received from foreign as well as local state or political actors over the previous financial year.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

211 Check is a non-partisan organization. It is unaffiliated with any political party and does not accept funding from them.

#defyhatenow South Sudan accepts private-sector and non-profit funding for its 211 Check project. Our website includes a list of our donors.

While certain projects and initiatives may be guided in part by the specific requirements of our funding partners, our donors are aware that 211 Check maintains operational and editorial independence. Our decisions are guided by the mission and values of our parent organization, #defyhatenow.

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

The applicant is in compliance in this regard. There is a clear statement of editorial independence and the non-partisan nature of 211 Check contained in the Editorial Policy posted on the website.

There is no obvious evidence of any links to the state or any political entity in South Sudan.

Other funders are regional and international non-governmental organizations and the UNDP.


done_all 1.5 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 1.6
Proof you meet criteria
If you confirmed the organization receives funding from local or foreign state or political sources, provide a link to where on your website you set out how you ensure the editorial independence of your work.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We don't receive funding from a local or foreign states or political actors. We have worked with a few donors and partners including UNDP in South Sudan, Internews South Sudan, the European Union Delegation to South Sudan, Facebook, Article 19, Meedan, Code for Africa and Africa Check, mostly on short term projects and capacity building collaborations. A list of our donors and partners can be found at the footer of our website homepage: https://211check.org/#top

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

The Statement of Independence includes the following: "While certain projects and initiatives may be guided in part by the specific requirements of our funding partners, our donors are aware that #defyhatenow South Sudan maintains operational and editorial independence for its 211 Check project. Our decisions are guided by the mission and values of our parent organization, #defyhatenow South Sudan."

See link >>>> https://211check.org/statement-of-independence/


done_all 1.6 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Section 2: A commitment to Non-partisanship and Fairness

To be compliant on nonpartisanship and fairness, applicants must meet these five criteria

  • 2.1 The applicant fact-checks using the same high standards of evidence and judgement for equivalent claims regardless of who made the claim.
  • 2.2 The applicant does not unduly concentrate its fact-checking on any one side, considers the reach and importance of claims it selects to check and publishes a short statement on its website to set out how it selects claims to check.
  • 2.3 The applicant discloses in its fact checks relevant interests of the sources it quotes where the reader might reasonably conclude those interests could influence the accuracy of the evidence provided. It also discloses in its fact checks any commercial or other such relationships it has that a member of the public might reasonably conclude could influence the findings of the fact check.
  • 2.4 The applicant is not as an organization affiliated with nor declares or shows support for any party, any politician or political candidate, nor does it advocate for or against any policy positions on any issues save for transparency and accuracy in public debate.
  • 2.5 The applicant sets out its policy on non-partisanship for staff on its site. Save for the issues of accuracy and transparency, the applicant’s staff do not get involved in advocacy or publicise their views on policy issues the organization might fact check in such a way as might lead a reasonable member of the public to see the organization’s work as biased.

Criteria 2.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please share links to 10 fact checks published over the past year that you believe demonstrate your non-partisanship.
Please briefly explain how the fact checks selected show that (I) you use the same high standards of evidence for equivalent claims, (II) follow the same essential process for every fact check and (III) let the evidence dictate your conclusions.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

We are guided by our editorial policy and methodology in doing our fact-checking work. This ensures that we maintain consistency in setting out evidence and selecting claims to fact-check. In our fact-checks, you will notice that first, we have an introduction that states the claim when and where it was found and why it has been selected for fact-checking. We then proceed to undertake an investigation highlighting our research and findings. Then, we conclude with a verdict. 

1. https://211check.org/fact-check-mtn-south-sudan-40th-anniversary-celebration-gift-raffle-is-a-hoax/ 

2. https://211check.org/fact-check-is-mwijukye-robert-lubang-part-of-a-group-that-initiated-a-conflict-in-magwi/ 

3. https://211check.org/fact-check-achai-wiir-not-giving-all-south-sudanese-artists-2000-each-this-year/ 

4. https://211check.org/fact-check-this-plane-with-the-south-sudan-flag-and-luggage-on-top-is-digitally-altered/ 

5. https://211check.org/fact-check-this-image-does-not-show-vehicles-submerged-in-floodwater-following-todays-rain-in-juba/ 

6. https://211check.org/fact-check-civil-service-commission-not-recruiting-the-job-advertisement-is-a-hoax/ 

7. https://211check.org/fact-check-ministry-of-petroleum-undersecretarys-resignation-letter-is-fake/ 

8. https://211check.org/fact-check-this-photo-was-not-taken-in-a-public-hospital-in-south-sudan/ 

9. https://211check.org/fact-check-business-grant-scam-in-south-sudan-resurfaces-on-facebook/ 

10. https://211check.org/fact-check-was-this-a-thief-on-a-street-light-in-juba-no/ 

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

211 Check is in compliance on this. There is an opportunity for growth here in paying greater attention to detail. On the whole, these reports are framed in line with IFCN protocols and standards although there are a few mistakes  especially when it comes to letting the evidence point to the conclusion such as dead/ non-existent links >>>>>  https://211check.org/fact-check-these-photos-do-not-show-ammunition-confiscated-by-the-national-security-yesterday/

A few, like the following, are missing comparative data such as the WHOIS data for https://www.boss.gov.ss/ in the following:>>>>   https://211check.org/hoax- the-bank-of-south-sudan-is-not-giving-100000-pounds-to-lucky-winners-for-its-10th-anniversary/

Others do not link to the source of the debunk where available.


done_all 2.1 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 2.2
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to a place on your website where you explain how you select claims to check, explaining how you ensure you do not unduly concentrate your fact-checking on any one side, and how you consider the reach and importance of the claims you select to check.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

We choose claims to be fact-checked or verified based on the following public interest worthiness matrix of the claim or content:

Virality: the tendency of an image, video, or piece of information to be circulated rapidly and widely from one Internet user to another; the quality or fact of being viral.

Harmfulness (Likelihood to cause harm): Does the piece of information have content that will likely cause immediate physical or emotional harm to an individual or a group? Does the content contain information that incites violence against a community or an individual?

Believability: Given that the content is false, how likely is it for the general public and social media users to believe it. (i.e skilled photoshopped picture vs an image with just a caption on it. Piece of info that has some facts mixed with false information making it harder to distinguish).

Factualness: How factual is the piece of information? Is it based on a well-established source and reported the body of knowledge or it is based on opinions and inaccurate claims?

Fact-checkable or not? Can the content or report be fact-checked or verified using publicly available evidence or data?

Because we were first trained by Africa Check on fact-checking and information verification, we somehow follow how they select claims as stated here: https://211check.org/how-to-fact-check/

https://211check.org/our-methodology/

Also refer to this document for more information: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DYUIlBUiTb6_XkhzK-EHf6XJ8q9WSalE/edit#

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. Information on how a claim is selected is indicated in the Content/Claim Public interest worthiness matrix at the end of the page laying out the methodology.

https://211check.org/our-methodology/ 


done_all 2.2 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 2.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year. No additional information required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous one year:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. Most of the fact checks on the 211 Check website are straightforward debunks of hoaxes, manipulated content or content used out of content. 

The only fact-checks that required clarification of the interest of the source were two -  "Fact-check: Is Mwijukye Robert Lubang part of a group that initiated a conflict in Magwi?" and "Fact-check: Achai Wiir not giving all South Sudanese artists $ 2000 each this year". This was clearly done and in both fact-checks brothers of the subject of the fact check were contacted for comment and are clearly identified as such.


done_all 2.3 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 2.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year. No additional information required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous one year:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. There is  no indication that 211 Check serves or is affiliated with any political party or politician or political candidate nor does it advocate for a position other than its own stated interests. Likewise, judging from the information available, the parent organization #DefyHateNow also has no political affiliation.


done_all 2.4 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 2.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to a place on your website where you publish a statement setting out your policy on non-partisanship for staff and how it ensures the organization meets this criteria.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

211 Check does not advocate (for) or take policy positions on the issues we fact-check. Our decisions are guided by the mission and values of our parent organization, #defyhatenow. 

Our statement on non-partisanship can be found in our editorial policy here: https://211check.org/211-check-editorial-policy/


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BbMPAEqRB6tXISFLFT6nvsc4EMjM8GV2POx7OoRCDV0/edit

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. Statement of Independence sets out the policy "211 Check fully understands the importance of maintaining independence and impartiality in doing its work. Its top management, fact-checkers and media monitors are committed to ensuring: the independence and impartiality of its fact-checking and information verification work, the adherence to editorial procedures for maintaining independence and objectivity, and the pro-active management of any threat of actual or perceived conflicts of interest affecting our editorial work."

See link >>>> https://211check.org/statement-of-independence/

Editorial policy further states "211 Check does not advocate (for) or take policy positions on the issues we fact-check."


done_all 2.5 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Section 3: A commitment to Standards and Transparency of Sources

To be compliant on sources, applicants must meet these four criteria

  • 3.1 The applicant identifies the source of all significant evidence used in their fact checks, providing relevant links where the source is available online, in such a way that users can replicate their work if they wish. In cases where identifying the source would compromise the source’s personal security, the applicant provides as much detail as compatible with the source’s safety.
  • 3.2 The applicant uses the best available primary, not secondary, sources of evidence wherever suitable primary sources are available. Where suitable primary sources are not available, the applicant explains the use of a secondary source.
  • 3.3 The applicant checks all key elements of claims against more than one named source of evidence save where the one source is the only source relevant on the topic.
  • 3.4 The applicant identifies in its fact checks the relevant interests of the sources it uses where the reader might reasonably conclude those interests could influence the accuracy of the evidence provided.

Criteria 3.1
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

211 Check is dedicated to providing its readers with the most complete disclosure of the information's sources. In order for readers to understand how and where we obtained our information, we strive to be as clear as possible in our work. Transparency is a reflection of our principles of honesty and fairness. We, in most cases provide hyperlinks to all online sources of information. Our policy on sources can be found here:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/12-GS5ASzbU_ihN3oe0Rc5BAQoghL4WMZgABs72fALT0/edit?usp=sharing

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. 211 is urged to quality check all fact checks for consistency in the integrity of links to the source of the misinformation and any other links used  so as to avoid omission such as in the following:

1. https://211check.org/fact-check-mtn-south-sudan-40th-anniversary-celebration-gift-raffle-is-a-hoax/

2. https://211check.org/fact-check-is-mwijukye-robert-lubang-part-of-a-group-that-initiated-a-conflict-in-magwi/

3. https://211check.org/fact-check-civil-service-commission-not-recruiting-the-job-advertisement-is-a-hoax/

Other quality assurance checks could include:-


done_all 3.1 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 3.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous year:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

The applicant uses appropriate primary sources in fact checks.


done_all 3.2 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 3.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous year:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. The applicant could strengthen the authority of its fact checks by expanding the minimum number of sources used in each fact check to 2-3. In the same regard, it would also help to explain why obvious potential sources were not used such as in the following report where the under-secretary mentioned in the title is not contacted:

https://211check.org/fact-check-ministry-of-petroleum-undersecretarys-resignation-letter-is-fake/   

and this

https://211check.org/fact-check-has-the-splm-io-been-dissolved-as-claimed-no/                                                                                                      


done_all 3.3 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 3.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous year:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. The familial, political and institutional positions of all primary sources are clearly indicated in fact checks and these help the reader to understand the interests of the source used to debunk information - for example:

https://211check.org/fact-check-has-the-splm-io-been-dissolved-as-claimed-no/


done_all 3.4 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Section 4: A commitment to Transparency of Funding & Organization

To be compliant on funding and organization, applicants must meet these five criteria

  • 4.1 Applicants that are independent organizations have a page on their website detailing each source of funding accounting for 5% or more of total revenue for its previous financial year. This page also sets out the legal form in which the organization is registered (e.g. as a non-profit, as a company etc).
  • 4.2 Applicants that are the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization make a statement on ownership.
  • 4.3 A statement on the applicant’s website sets out the applicant’s organizational structure and makes clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.
  • 4.4 A page on the applicant’s website details the professional biography of all those who, according to the organizational structure and play a significant part in its editorial output.
  • 4.5 The applicant provides easy means on its website and/or via social media for users to communicate with the editorial team.

Criteria 4.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please confirm whether you are an ‘independent organization’
or ‘the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization’ and share proof of this organizational status.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

211 Check is a flagship project of #defyhatenow South Sudan, a national non-governmental organisation duly registered by the South Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (SSRRC). It is run and managed by its parent organisation and therefore not independent.

We state clearly in the about section of our website that 211 Check is run and managed by #defyhatenow South Sudan: https://211check.org/about-us/

#defyhatenow South Sudan also states on its homepage that it owns 211 Check: https://defyhatenow.org/defyhatenow_southsudan/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

The details of 211 Check's independence and legal registration are on the "About us" page. https://211check.org/about-us/


done_all 4.1 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 4.2
Proof you meet criteria
If your organization is an “independent organization”, please share a link to the page on your website where you detail your funding and indicate the legal form in which the organization is registered (e.g. as a non-profit, as a company etc).
If your organization is “the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization”, please share a link to the statement on your website about your ownership.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Here is the link on the #defyhatenow website indicating ownership of 211 Check: https://defyhatenow.org/defyhatenow_southsudan/

On a similar note, 211 Check states in the about section of its website that it is run and managed by #defyhatenow South Sudan: https://211check.org/about-us/

#defyhatenow South Sudan mainly secures funding through grant opportunities, most of which are short term lasting less than a year. A list of our donors and partners can be found at the footer of our website homepage as in the above links. We do not have a single and consistent funding source at the moment

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

A clear statement of the relationship between 211 Check and the parent organization DefyHateNow is indicated along with details of legal registration on the "About us" page. https://211check.org/about-us/


done_all 4.2 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 4.3
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you set out your organizational structure, making clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

The 211 Check Editorial Structure  constitutes a variety of professional staff at different levels, as discussed here: https://211check.org/211-check-editorial-structure/


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EJ4pZrNhutF_zWCNJAcoW1xZPzqdRzu-/edit

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

The editorial organogram is clearly laid out on the website  and a list of roles and responsibilities follows below it indicating how the team works. Ultimate supervision and responsibility for 211 Check desk rests with the Team Leader / Chief Editor.

https://211check.org/211-check-editorial-structure/


done_all 4.3 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 4.4
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you set out the professional biographies of those who play a significant part in your organization’s editorial output.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

211 Check has a list of its team members here: https://211check.org/team/

This does not fully reflect the editorial structure, because there has been a downsizing due to funding shortage making some of the current team members to do cross cutting roles across data analysis, media monitoring, basic graphics design and fact-checking.

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Links to the professional biographies of the editorial team are clearly laid out here:

https://211check.org/team/



done_all 4.4 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 4.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you encourage users to communicate with your editorial team.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

On our website, we have a link through which website visitors can contact us with the following caption: "Got a claim for us to fact-check? Is there a claim that you would like us to investigate? Has a politician, a business or union leader, a health association or environmental group said something that you suspect is untrue or misleading and that should be challenged?" Users can click on this link: https://211check.org/contact/ to reach us.

We also have a WhatsApp button on our website homepage through which we can be contacted.

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

The home page of the 211 Check site has a call to submit information for fact checking (Got a claim for us to fact-check?) and a link to the contact page.

https://211check.org/contact/

There is a floating Whatsapp button on the site allows for direct messaging.



done_all 4.5 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Section 5: A commitment to Standards and Transparency of Methodology

To be compliant on methodology, applicants must meet these six criteria

  • 5.1 The applicant publishes on its website a statement about the methodology it uses to select, research, write and publish its fact checks.
  • 5.2 The applicant selects claims to check based primarily on the reach and importance of the claims, and where possible explains the reason for choosing the claim to check.
  • 5.3 The applicant sets out in its fact checks relevant evidence that appears to support the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it.
  • 5.4 The applicant in its fact checks assesses the merits of the evidence found using the same high standards applied to evidence on equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim.
  • 5.5 The applicant seeks where possible to contact those who made the claim to seek supporting evidence, noting that (I) this is often not possible with online claims, (II) if the person who makes the claim fails to reply in a timely way this should not impede the fact check, (III) if a speaker adds caveats to the claim, the fact-checker should be free to continue with checking the original claim, (IV) fact-checkers may not wish to contact the person who made the claim for safety or other legitimate reasons.
  • 5.6 The applicant encourages users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable.

Criteria 5.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a link to the statement on your website that explains the methodology you use to select, research, write and publish your fact checks.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

The methodology we use is based on the following content reporting and feedback process:

1. Content identification: Content and/or claim is identified by a 211 Check media monitor fellow or community member.

2. Content categorization and labelling: Content and/or claim is submitted through the content submission form: https://forms.gle/Ny8fikJRQFcE1CZQ7

3. Action by 211 Check: 211 Check content moderator evaluates the content and takes a prescribed action based on the assessment.

4. Result of Action: 211 Check content moderator and/or fact-checker receives a result from a third party or senior management on the content or claim.

5. Feedback to the content originator: 211 Check content moderator and/or fact-checker provides feedback to the content originator.


Steps 1 & 2 are evicted by 211 Check’s media monitors by filling the content form: https://forms.gle/Ny8fikJRQFcE1CZQ7 

Steps 3, 4, and 5 are done by the Content moderator and will be recorded in the content sheet, refer to columns J to P on this sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ysNk9Po5VYVPGuL0a_VGqbJ10Um_it6VPZZe7BhrFE8/edit?usp=sharing


Our methodology can be found here: https://211check.org/our-methodology/


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DYUIlBUiTb6_XkhzK-EHf6XJ8q9WSalE/edit#

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

UPDATE 7/10/2022 - Compliant. Content has been consolidated as recommended in previous notes (see below). 

Much of the required information is there. I would suggest sequencing the information on the page to make it follow the actual fact checking process, beginning with how a claim is selected.

Information on how a claim is selected is laid out in the Content/Claim Public interest worthiness matrix at the bottom of the page laying out the methodology. Information on how the claims are researched needs to be beefed up slightly to reflect the background research (online and offline), use of tools to identify manipulation, interviews with primary sources etc. Information on how fact checks are written is missing and should lay out the importance of linking to all available sources so the reader is able to arrive at the same conclusion themself. 

https://211check.org/our-methodology/                                                                                                            


done_all 5.1 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 5.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

"We choose claims to be fact-checked or verified based on the following matrix:

Virality: the tendency of an image, video, or piece of information to be circulated rapidly and widely from one Internet user to another; the quality or fact of being viral.

Harmfulness (Likelihood to cause harm): Does the piece of information have content that will likely cause immediate physical or emotional harm to an individual or a group? Does the content contain information that incites violence against a community or an individual?

Believability: Given that the content is false, how likely is it for the general public and social media users to believe it. (i.e skilled photoshopped picture vs an image with just a caption on it. Piece of info that has some facts mixed with false information making it harder to distinguish).

Factualness: How factual is the piece of information? Is it based on a well-established source and reported the body of knowledge or it is based on opinions and inaccurate claims?

Fact-checkable or not? Can the content or report be fact-checked or verified using publicly available evidence or data?"

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. These explanations should be included consistently as done in the following fact checks that indicate that the claims being examined had gone viral: -

https://211check.org/fact-check-ministry-of-petroleum-undersecretarys-resignation-letter-is-fake/

https://211check.org/fact-check-viral-link-asking-students-to-apply-for-laptop-scheme-2021-22-is-a-hoax/



done_all 5.2 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 5.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous year:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. The applicant indicates evidence in support of the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it and it is recommended that this be done consistently for all fact checks. For example, this claim about an imposter Twitter account with the name of the Bank of South Sudan, highlights the fact that the Central Bank of South Sudan currently has three genuine Twitter accounts in its name and this makes it difficult for followers to figure out which is authentic and actively used. It then elaborates on why it has been found to be a fake account.

https://211check.org/fact-check-bss_original-is-the-authentic-twitter-account-for-the-bank-of-south-sudan/


done_all 5.3 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 5.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous year:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. The same standards are applied to each claim. 


done_all 5.4 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 5.5
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Please, refer to the following links on our website to review fact-checks published over the previous year:

Fact-checks we publish can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/fact-checks/

Our data stories can be found in this section of our website: https://211check.org/data-stories/

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Compliant. 211 Check seeks to contact the person concerned or their designated spokesperson and should consistently apply their own best practice standards. For example, the press secretary of South Sudan's First Vice President Riek Machar responded to this claim about the dissolution of SPLM-IO party. the party Machar leads.

https://211check.org/fact-check-has-the-splm-io-been-dissolved-as-claimed-no/

In this case the spokesperson for the Bank of South Sudan was contacted

https://211check.org/fact-check-bss_original-is-the-authentic-twitter-account-for-the-bank-of-south-sudan/


done_all 5.5 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 5.6
Proof you meet criteria
Please describe how you encourage users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable. Include links where appropriate. If you do not allow this, explain why.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

"We have a call to action on our website and a form to submit claims that requires fact-checking. We do not check opinions, predictions and/or statements that cannot be verified using open source data.

This can be found at the right end of the 211 Check website homepage: https://211check.org/"

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

UPDATE 7/10/2022 - The concern indicated previously (see below) has been addressed with the insertion of the statement "We do not check opinions, predictions and/or statements that cannot be verified using open source data." 

There is no indication as to what readers can and cannot expect when they send in a claim to be checked and this needs to be corrected. 

There is however, a clear call to send in claims for fact checking.This is pinned to all 211 Check online assets which all promote the call to act and link to each other.

Website home page https://211check.org/# (Link to IG page not working)

Floating Whatsapp button on the website

Pinned tweet on its Twitter handle https://twitter.com/211Check

Pinned post on its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/211check/

Also shared on its IG account 211check


done_all 5.6 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Section 6: A commitment to an Open & Honest Corrections Policy

To be compliant on corrections policy, applicants must meet these five criteria

  • 6.1 The applicant has a corrections or complaints policy that is easily visible and accessible on the organization’s website or frequently referenced in broadcasts.
  • 6.2 The policy sets out clear definitions of what it does and does not cover, how major mistakes, especially those requiring revised conclusions of a fact check, are handled, and the fact that some complaints may justify no response. This policy is adhered to scrupulously.
  • 6.3 Where credible evidence is provided that the applicant has made a mistake worthy of correction, the applicant makes a correction openly and transparently, seeking as far as possible to ensure that users of the original see the correction and the corrected version.
  • 6.4 The applicant, if an existing signatory, should either on its corrections/complaints page or on the page where it declares itself an IFCN signatory inform users that if they believe the signatory is violating the IFCN Code, they may inform the IFCN, with a link to the IFCN site.
  • 6.5 If the applicant is the fact-checking unit of a media company, it is a requirement of signatory status that the parent media company has and adheres to an open and honest corrections policy.

Criteria 6.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a link to where you publish on your website your corrections or complaints policy. If you are primarily a broadcaster, please provide evidence you frequently reference your corrections policy in broadcasts.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

As per the correction policy, 211 Check continues to strengthen its fight against misinformation by building the capacity of its team in regular fact-checking and monitoring the content flow on websites, social media and offline. 211 Check actively does fact-checking work and data analysis.

In case of any appeal or feedback, 211 Check takes note of the details provided, does the correction/corrections following our Standard Operating Procedures and editorial guidelines and also puts on record the fact-check articles that needed corrections.

Here is our corrections policy: https://211check.org/our-corrections-policy-at-211-check/


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1k4CbOsCLnYz2HLuzb1WMz2z29oj9oK8xOSnIY4UqiKk/edit#

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

A clear corrections policy is placed on the website.

https://211check.org/our-corrections-policy-at-211-check/


done_all 6.1 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 6.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the corrections policy to verify it meets critera. No additional information needed.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

"Our correction policy is a document that informs and governs staff behavior, sets clear expectations, and confirms that 211 Check performs its role in being open to corrections.

It is also the basis for staff supervision, training, and supporting a defense in case of a negative outcome. We welcome and value both positive and negative feedback from our audience which we receive in the form of comments, emails and phone calls. This is our revised corrections policy that is not yet reflected on the website: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1k4CbOsCLnYz2HLuzb1WMz2z29oj9oK8xOSnIY4UqiKk/edit?usp=sharing"

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

UPDATE 7/10/2022 - 211 Check is now compliant with Criteria 6.2. The corrections policy is now aligned with IFCN principles. 

The corrections policy is readily available on the website. It, however, needs some amendments if it is to meet IFCN criteria. It does not outline what is and is not handled under the corrections policy nor does it address the commitment to handle all corrections openly and transparently and to ensure that as far as possible those who may have seen the original fact check will be reached by the correction.

There is also reference to removing the content which is not in line with IFCN policy: "Depending on the authenticity and magnitude of the mistake/error, 211 Check removes/edits the published information or duly informs the reader in case the original news does not qualify as a mistake and how the 211 Check Desk arrived at such a decision."


done_all 6.2 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 6.3
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a short statement about how the policy was adhered to over the previous year (or six months if this is the first application) including evidence of two examples of the responses provided by the applicant to a correction request over the previous year. Where no correction request has been made in the previous year, you must state this in your application, which will be publicly available in the assessment if your application is successful.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

Since 211 Check is a somewhat new organisation in the fact-checking and information verification arena, first having the task of prebunking and then debunking, we always remind our staff to stick to the organisation's editorial policy. The editors also make sure that fact-check articles are properly checked to meet our standard operating procedures.

That is why since our inception, we have not made any corrections to our published work, but sure we shall in accordance with our corrections policy if the need comes up. 


Find our core values and principles of work here: https://211check.org/211-check-editorial-policy/


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BbMPAEqRB6tXISFLFT6nvsc4EMjM8GV2POx7OoRCDV0/edit#

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

I did not find any case where the corrections policy has been brought into force. This is likely because 211 Check is a relatively new organization and is noted by the applicant in response to this query. I have therefore indicated them as being compliant.


done_all 6.3 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 6.4
Proof you meet criteria
If you are an existing signatory, please provide a link to show where on your site you inform users that if they believe you are violating the IFCN Code, they may inform the IFCN of this, with a link to the complaints page on the IFCN site.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We are not yet a signatory of the IFCN code of principles, but once we become a signatory, we shall include a complaints page on our website where users can inform the International Fact-checking Network (IFCN) if they believe we are violating the IFCN's code.

In the meantime, users send complaints to us via e-mail or our WhatsApp tipline. We are open to corrections and honest feedback from our audience.

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

This is not applicable. 211 Check is not yet an IFCN signatory. If they become signatories this will then become applicable.


done_all 6.4 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.

Criteria 6.5
Proof you meet criteria
If you are the fact-checking unit of a media company, please provide a link to the parent media company’s honest and open corrections policy and provide evidence that it adheres to this.

211 Check
07-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago

We are not the fact-checking unit of a media company, thus we entirely depend on our corrections policy: https://211check.org/our-corrections-policy-at-211-check/


 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1k4CbOsCLnYz2HLuzb1WMz2z29oj9oK8xOSnIY4UqiKk/edit#

Rose Lukalo Assessor
11-Aug-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago

211 Check is the fact checking project of an NGO not a media company so this is not applicable.


done_all 6.5 marked as Compliant by Rose Lukalo.