Quotes around anti-Palestinian racism – attribution, sourcing
An individual took issue with the framing and sources of a news story, as well as the fact that the term “anti-Palestinian racism” appeared in quotation marks.
In its review, the NNC noted that the piece contained statements from several sources, including remarks from the federal attorney general, who emphasized the importance of “[addressing] reprisals and backlash that we’ve seen against people that are Arab or Palestinian, including looking in more detail at the definition of anti-Palestinian racism.” The piece also noted that one source was unable to be reached prior to publication, which is in line with standard practice when sources are not able to provide comment before deadline.
In reviewing the quotation marks around the use of the term “anti-Palestinian racism,” the NNC observed that the article appeared to be referring to a shorthand title of the report in the headline as well as the definition of the term itself, in which case the use of quotation marks was appropriate. In other instances throughout the piece, the term was not in quotation marks, including the first paragraph.
While readers may wish to see other perspectives more fully reflected, basic editorial practices support the view that journalists have the ability to decide on the scope of a story and to select the credible sources they deem appropriate and relevant to the article. In this case, the complaint did not contain grounds to support a breach of journalistic standards. (CASE ID 2025-02)
Explicit details from court proceedings – sensitive material
An individual contacted the NNC to express their concern that a news report about a former teacher, who was found guilty of sexually exploiting students, contained explicit details. The complainant worried that such material was sensational and insensitive to individuals involved in the case.
It is standard journalistic practice for newsrooms to report on court cases as matters of public interest. Canada has an open court system, and this is an important part of promoting public transparency and judicial accountability.
In its review of the matter, the NNC observed that the details reported were based on an agreed upon statement of facts from all parties involved in the case, and that the judge reinforced a publication ban prohibiting any information that could identify the youth victims.
In this case, there was no indication that the news organization breached the publication ban. Further, the NNC noted that the details of the encounters between the teacher and youths allowed readers to understand the issues that formed the basis of the verdict in this case. It is not unusual for news organizations to report on the nature of events subject to court proceedings so that readers can understand the impact on the victims and outcome of the case in context.
While the complainant considered the specific details graphic in nature, the NNC did not find grounds to support a complaint about a breach of standards in this case. (CASE ID 2025-04)
Unfashionable photos – story placement, editorial prerogative
An individual filed a complaint with the NNC expressing their concern that a photo spread about Moscow Fashion Week was inappropriate and insensitive given the current war in Ukraine.
The NNC did not find grounds in the complaint to support a specific breach of standards and explained, as a matter of general information, that news organizations have the editorial prerogative to select specific stories for publication, including stories provided by news wire services, which they view as relevant for their audiences.
Importantly, international political matters, including sanctions or military action, do not automatically dictate coverage decisions. While individuals may wish to see certain topics prioritized or not covered at all, the decision on which stories to publish ultimately rests with the newsroom. (CASE ID 2025-06)