IFCN Code of Principles

The advisory board

The International Fact-Checking Network has 7 counselors who represent the geographical diversity of the network. They are pioneers in the development and implementation of fact-checking in their countries and regions. All board members are unpaid.

The Advisory Board's main role is to help oversee the verification process of the code of principles, but it is also consulted on all matters of other decisions that have an international relevance for fact-checkers.

The role of the committee members in applying for the code of principle is fundamental, because once the external advisors issue a recommendation on the applicant, the board votes. The organizations are approved after obtaining four votes in favor.

* The term of the advisory board members was renewed for two years in December 2017 and ratified by the verified signatories of the IFCN code of principles.

* Board members who resign or leave fact-checking projects will be replaced through a simple majority vote of the remaining Board members plus the Director of the IFCN.

Our pool of assessors

External assessors are the first filter in the application and vetting process of the code of principles. External assessors are journalism professors, researchers or media consultants that have a solid knowledge of the media and fact-checking ecosystem, a broad understanding about transparency and freedom of the press and and about the political context of the country or region where they work and where the assessed applicants publish their fact checks.

The IFCN currently has a pool of 96 advisors. For each assessment they conduct, the IFCN pays them $350 USD. $200 USD come from the application fee and the rest is a subsidy that comes from IFCN funding.