Organization: Factcheck.kz
Applicant: Factcheck.kz
Assessor: Askhat Yerkimbay
Background
Factcheck.kz is the first fact-checking project in Central Asia that promotes IFCN standards across post-soviet countries and operates from 2017.
The team publishes materials mainly in Kazakh and Russian languages and started a crowdfunding project to maintain financially independent.
Not only in Kazakhstan but also in neighboring countries journalists participated in Factcheck.kz training and workshops. The online Factcheck academy is also helping to foster journalism in the region.
Assessment Conclusion
Factcheck.kz is a reliable media project and has been shown that it is compliant with every principle enacted by the IFCN.
Askhat Yerkimbay assesses application as Compliant
A short summary in native publishing language
Халықаралық Medianet журналистика орталығы аясында қалыптасқан Factcheck.kz жобасы 2017 жылдан бері Қазақстанға ғана емес Орталық Азия және орыс тілді посткеңестік елдерде фактчек дағдысының қалыптасуына оң әсер етіп жүр. Жоба аясында қазақ және орыс тілдірінде мақалалар жарияланып, қоғам үшін маңызы деректердің, мәлімдемелердің деректерін сараптап, тексереді.
Фактчек жұмысын реттестіруде Халықаралық Фактчекерлер қауымдастығы (IFCN) ұсынған жобалар мен ережелерді негізге алатын ұжым ел ішіндегі маңызды оқиғаларға дер кезінде үн қатып, анық-қанығын анықтауда қажырлы еңбек етіп келеді.
Жасалған бағалау жұмысы Factcheck.kz жобасы IFCN ұстанатын ережелер мен ұстанымдарға сай екенін тағы бір дәлелдеді.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago)
Factcheck.kz is owned by MediaNet — International Center for Journalism. MediaNet is the NGO established by the group of Kazakhstani journalists in 2004. Our mission is to support the development of the civil society in Kazakhstan and Central Asia by consolidating the potential of independent media outlets, supporting public organizations, human rights activists and promoting freedom of speech. For further reference see MediaNet website — https://medianet.kz/about-us/?lang=en
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The applicant is a well-known media organization in Central Asia and information on the fact-checking project is placed on the main website. In addition, the main platform of the organization is credible and provided up-to-date information. The legal status of the organization is checked and listed in the countries registered non-governmental organizations.
done_all 1.1 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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?
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
1. Factcheck.kz was founded in 2017. There were no other fact-checking projects in Central Asia before, that was one of the reasons that motivated us to create this startup. Our team is comprised of professional journalists with experience in covering social, economic, cultural and political issues, etc., who decided to launch the first fact-checking resource in the country and Central Asia in general. Our Mission is to counteract the post-truth politics and increase the media culture level in Kazakhstan. Our goal is to fight against unreliable information, manipulations, fake news and create content that will help our audience to improve their verification skills, media literacy and news literacy.
2. At the moment we have 12 people as the main stuff and from 2 to 5 freelancers monthly.
3. Activities: researching and publishing fact checks and open data investigations, organizing training in fact-checking in Kazakstan and Central Asia (in 2020 — online training), conducting media and information literacy webinars, implementing media literacy at schools in Kazakhstan (media literacy textbook is attached).
4. Next year, it is planned to implement the following activities:
Maintain and, if possible, increase the loyal audience of the project.
Maintain and, if possible, increase the engagement of the loyal audience:
Provide stable content updates at the level of 20 fact checks per month.
Diversify the sources of funding by attracting funds from the audience and donor organizations.
Developing our Youtube channels in Kazakh https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp-e3BMnkODf2CIKh2oN09A and Russian https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQDjt1IYcf_OeNE_3dvnsBQ
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The team of factchek.kz consists of 12 people and all the members of the project entirely work for the purpose of fact-checking. This has been seen by analyzing the responsibilities of each member, including the staff.
In addition, the project is growing by organizing workshops, and educational projects. The team is planning the increase the frequency of posts and engage more Kazakh-speaking audiences.
done_all 1.2 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Over the past 6 months, we have published at least 3 fact checks per week. A significant part of them is related to debunking misinformation about coronavirus and vaccination.
https://factcheck.kz/category/claim-checking/
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The applicant is quite active in providing fact-checking-based materials in the Kazakh and Russian languages. During the last six months factchek.kz published at least 3 posts per week.
The topic of the materials varies from debunking misinformation on COVID-19 to Russian propaganda.
done_all 1.3 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
In general, the applicant's fact checks focus on claims related to the Kazakh society's needs. The analysis of the last three months' posts shows that the project mainly covers the topics that heated debate in society. Moreover, the applicant smartly distinguishes the demand of the Kazakh-speaking and the needs of the Russian-speaking audience. For example, some topics are more reflect the Kazakh speakers' concerns:
Қазақ тілін түркі халқына ортақ тіл ретінде пайдалану ұсынылды ма?
Толығырақ - https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kazak-tilin-turki-xalkyna-ortak-til-retinde-pajdalanu-usynyldy-ma/. Материалды көшіріп басқанда factcheck.kz сайтына гиперсілтеме міндетті түрде қойылуы тиіс.
Жүкті әйелдер туралы мифтер | 2-бөлім
Толығырақ - https://factcheck.kz/kaz/densaulyk/zhukti-ajelder-turaly-mifter-2-bolim/. Материалды көшіріп басқанда factcheck.kz сайтына гиперсілтеме міндетті түрде қойылуы тиіс.
Теңге Check: Жазушылар одағы құрылтайшыларының компаниялары мен мемлекеттен алған тапсырыстары
Толығырақ - https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/tenge-check-zhazushylar-odagy-kuryltajshylarynyn-kompaniyalary-men-memleketten-algan-tapsyrystary/. Материалды көшіріп басқанда factcheck.kz сайтына гиперсілтеме міндетті түрде қойылуы тиіс.
And some topics are more relevant to the Russian-speaking audience in the country.
Почему Youtube не уходит из России рассказала глава платформы Сьюзан Воджицки
Подробнее - https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/pochemu-youtube-ne-uxodit-iz-rossii-rasskazala-glava-platformy-syuzan-vodzhicki/. Любое использование материалов допускается только при наличии гиперссылки на factcheck.kz.
Древние укры: как появился фейковый сюжет про украинские учебники истории
Подробнее - https://factcheck.kz/fact-checking/mify-i-pravda/drevnie-ukry-kak-poyavilsya-fejkovyj-syuzhet-pro-ukrainskie-uchebniki-istorii/. Любое использование материалов допускается только при наличии гиперссылки на factcheck.kz.
«Паб Putin в Иерусалиме переименовали в паб Zelenskiy» — фактчекеры AFP проверили новость
Подробнее - https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/pab-putin-v-ierusalime-pereimenovali-v-pab-zelenskiy-faktchekery-afp-proverili-novost/. Любое использование материалов допускается только при наличии гиперссылки на factcheck.kz.
Those randomly selected materials prove that the applicant's content fulfills the needs of the society, despite the language difference in media content consumption.
done_all 1.4 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The editorial board does not receive funding from the state or political parties. The work of the editorial board is funded by grants from Kazakhstani and international non-governmental organizations (factcheck.kz is developed and supported with the help of Soros Foundation Kazakhstan) and donations from readers. We also do not receive funding from commercial companies.
However, sometimes we work with the embassies of the US and the UK in the framework of projects to counter misinformation. From November 2020 to January 2021, we conducted a project to combat misinformation about the coronavirus with funding from the British Embassy in Kazakhstan. All articles released within the framework of the project contained a note that they were prepared with the support of the Embassy.
FCKZ.png (291 KB)
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The applicant clearly indicates evidence of not being supported by the state, politicians, or party in Kazakhstan. Moreover, the applicant marks with special attention the posts that got funding from the international organization.
done_all 1.5 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
As it is said on the "About us page" and in the footer of the website, FactCheck.kz is developed and supported with the help of Soros Foundation Kazakhstan. We claim the Factcheck.kz is an essentially independent fact-checking project, equidistant from political and other “camps”. Objectivity and impartiality are always our priority. Any person, mass media or organization, statements, publications, phrases and figures, etc., can become an object for a fact check within our project
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
On the "About us" page of factcheck.kz, see the disclaimer on funding by Soros Foundation is placed in the Kazakh and Russian languages. The transparency is present and the applicant openly states the supporter.
done_all 1.6 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kazakstanda-majnin-fermalar-salyk-tolemejtini-ras-pa/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/resej-askerileri-tochka-u-zymyrandaryn-koldanbaj-ma/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/ukraina-memleketi-zhok-degen-fejk-kalaj-shykty/
https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/kak-voznik-fejk-o-tom-chto-gosudarstva-ukraina-ne-sushhestvuet/
https://factcheck.kz/health/testirovanie-sigaret-na-biglyax-pravda-i-mify-o-populyarnyx-foto/
https://factcheck.kz/fact-checking/mify-i-pravda/pravda-li-chto-bajden-zdorovaetsya-s-vozduxom/
https://factcheck.kz/glavnoe/faktchek-poslaniya-2021-prezidenta-kasym-zhomarta-tokaeva/
All statements are selected in accordance with the criteria stated by the editorial board. A standardized scale of verdicts is used, the principle of choosing which is also described on the site and is available for all users to review. Each verdict is the result of an analysis of open data, confirming or refuting the statement. If there is not enough data to make a verdict, then we leave the statement without a verdict and provide the reader with links to all available data on the topic. All articles are signed by their authors, the author's name is clickable and takes the reader to a page with all the author's materials. In the case of materials made in partnership with another editorial office or institution, information about this is also provided to the user. Following the standard, we strive to guide the reader through the entire chain of analysis and explain why we made such a verdict, and not a different one. The reader can independently go through the entire process following the author of the article.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Factcheck identifies the source of all significant facts used in materials. The team provides relevant links for their audience.
The method of selecting the claims is clear and justified by explanation.
done_all 2.1 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The principles of our Truth-O-Meter can be found here in Russian - https://factcheck.kz/kak-my-opredelyaem-pravdomer/ and here in English - https://goo.gl/iWzwLX. Also we have a special section devoted to methodology - https://factcheck.kz/category/metodika-fch/
How we select claims to check https://factcheck.kz/kriterii-otbora-materiala-dlya-proverki/
In English https://factcheck.kz/en/selection-criteria-for-claims/
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
As an experienced organization that is knowledgeable on IFCN standards factcheck.kz uses primary sources and explains in detail the checking process so the audience can track the way if the journalists' job.
done_all 2.2 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
By analyzing the content of the applicant's material we can conclude that factcheck.kz can clearly distinguish the editorial opinion from the material that they present. In cases, when a journalist or team has their own opinion it is framed and noted so. The project that has been done under a specific grant is also marked and not hidden from the audience.
done_all 2.3 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The monitoring of the content and the entire project doesn't show any sense of affiliation with any party, politician, or political candidate. The resource covers the material related to all types of institutions and public figures in Kazakh society.
done_all 2.4 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
In Russian https://factcheck.kz/o-nas/
In Kazakh https://factcheck.kz/kaz/biz-turaly/
In English https://factcheck.kz/en/about-project/
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Factcheck.kz shows its editorial policy on the "About Us" section of the site in Kazakh, Russian and English languages. The text has all the important information about the project, how it works and team members.
done_all 2.5 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/v-twitter-poyavilsya-fejkovyj-akkaunt-glavnokomanduyushhego-vs-ukrainy/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/zhaponiya-kiberbullinge-katysty-zanga-kandaj-ozgeris-engizdi/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kiberbullin-xalykaralyk-tazhiribe-men-kazakstandagy-zhagdaj/
The analysis of randomly selected posts shows that the applicant shows the primary source of the claimers and facts that helped to build a verdict. Each material consists of links that readers can check on their own. The verdict of the factchecking is in colored frames, so makes it easy to understand. In the cases when the applicant doesn't give a verdict explains this position with not having enough sources or not having available instruments to prove.
done_all 3.1 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/v-twitter-poyavilsya-fejkovyj-akkaunt-glavnokomanduyushhego-vs-ukrainy/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/zhaponiya-kiberbullinge-katysty-zanga-kandaj-ozgeris-engizdi/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kiberbullin-xalykaralyk-tazhiribe-men-kazakstandagy-zhagdaj/
The analysis of randomly selected posts shows that the applicant shows the primary source of the claimers and facts that helped to build a verdict. Each material consists of links that readers can check on their own. The verdict of the factchecking is in colored frames, so makes it easy to understand.
done_all 3.2 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/v-twitter-poyavilsya-fejkovyj-akkaunt-glavnokomanduyushhego-vs-ukrainy/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/zhaponiya-kiberbullinge-katysty-zanga-kandaj-ozgeris-engizdi/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kiberbullin-xalykaralyk-tazhiribe-men-kazakstandagy-zhagdaj/
The analysis of randomly selected posts shows that 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 to the topic.
done_all 3.3 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/v-twitter-poyavilsya-fejkovyj-akkaunt-glavnokomanduyushhego-vs-ukrainy/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/zhaponiya-kiberbullinge-katysty-zanga-kandaj-ozgeris-engizdi/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kiberbullin-xalykaralyk-tazhiribe-men-kazakstandagy-zhagdaj/
The analysis of randomly selected posts clearly indicates that factcheck.kz 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.
done_all 3.4 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Factcheck.kz is owned by MediaNet — International Center for Journalism. MediaNet is the NGO established by the group of Kazakhstani journalists in 2004
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The applicant is the project of the media organization and information regarding the source of funding is presented in two places: the about us section and in the footer of the website.
The statement in two languages informs that the project is developed and supported by Soros-Kazakhstan Foundation.
done_all 4.1 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Factcheck.kz is owned by MediaNet — International Center for Journalism. MediaNet is the NGO established by a group of Kazakhstani journalists in 2004. Our mission is to support the development of civil society in Kazakhstan and Central Asia by consolidating the potential of independent media outlets, supporting public organizations, human rights activists and promoting freedom of speech. For further reference see our website — https://medianet.kz/about-us/?lang=en
Information about ownership is placed on each page of the site in the footer, next to the editorial contacts and a link to the feedback form. Screenshot attached
As it is said on the "About us page" and in the footer of the website, FactCheck.kz is developed and supported with the help of Soros Foundation Kazakhstan. We claim the Factcheck.kz is an essentially independent fact-checking project, equidistant from political and other “camps”. Objectivity and impartiality are always our priority. Any person, mass media or organization, statements, publications, phrases and figures, etc., can become an object for a fact-check within our project
Ownership_screenshot... (370 KB)
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Factcheck.kz is a well-known project in Kazakhstan that has been registered under the International Center for Journalism "MediaNet". The center provides not only training but research papers and operates as a watchdog media organization.
The applicant provided the document with legal registration. The public fund “International Center for Journalism “MediaNet” got a registration number first time in 2009.
The resource factchek.kz is named on the official website (medianet.kz) of the organization too.
done_all 4.2 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The provided link has the information on the organizational structure and editorial team who is responsible for the content and operational unit.
done_all 4.3 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The authors and name of the editorial team's bio are clearly listed in the about us section of the website. Readers can click on author's name and find the posts but not the biographies.
done_all 4.4 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The signatory invites readers to reach out through a contact form under the About us section and at the right bottom of the homepage. In both cases, the reader needs to do an extra action to reach out.
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/biz-turaly/obratnaya-svyaz-2/ Kazakh
https://factcheck.kz/obratnaya-svyaz/ - Russian
done_all 4.5 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The methodology used by the Factcheck.kz is based on international standards and fact-checking tools. Factcheck.kz uses open sources to verify the facts and contacts official sources to request official documents to present the evidence.
In accordance with the collected evidence and the "truth-teller" criteria, the editor's office delivers a verdict and publishes it on the website together with the collected evidence.
Any person can co-participate in the project by proposing a fact for verification, as well as his version of the verification procedure and evidence base.
The Factcheck.kz reserves the right to choose the method of verification and sources of evidence.
In the case of controversial situations, the Factcheck.kz is ready to consider counter-arguments, as well as the possibility of establishing an expert working group to recheck the verdict. This statement is provided on the front page of the resource.
The Factcheck.kz can also establish a working expert group in certain cases when it is complicated to make an unambiguous verdict.
The Factcheck.kz project is principally oriented towards the legislation of Kazakhstan, international legislation, as well as internationally recognized values and ethical norms”.
The website has a clear explanation of truth-o-meter. There is a step-by-step explanation of different fact-checking tools and methods under the methodology section in both language versions.
done_all 5.1 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The site has a section that explains to readers how to send claims and which claims can be fact-checked.
The contact form allows us to enter messages and choose between “Do you want to send us a fact to check?” and “Send us feedback about the project”. In addition, the applicant uses the social media channel to accept claims checks.
done_all 5.2 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/v-twitter-poyavilsya-fejkovyj-akkaunt-glavnokomanduyushhego-vs-ukrainy/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/zhaponiya-kiberbullinge-katysty-zanga-kandaj-ozgeris-engizdi/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kiberbullin-xalykaralyk-tazhiribe-men-kazakstandagy-zhagdaj/
The randomly selected post analysis shows that 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.
done_all 5.3 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/v-twitter-poyavilsya-fejkovyj-akkaunt-glavnokomanduyushhego-vs-ukrainy/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/zhaponiya-kiberbullinge-katysty-zanga-kandaj-ozgeris-engizdi/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kiberbullin-xalykaralyk-tazhiribe-men-kazakstandagy-zhagdaj/
The randomly selected post analysis presents that 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.
done_all 5.4 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://factcheck.kz/v-mire/v-twitter-poyavilsya-fejkovyj-akkaunt-glavnokomanduyushhego-vs-ukrainy/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/zhaponiya-kiberbullinge-katysty-zanga-kandaj-ozgeris-engizdi/
https://factcheck.kz/kaz/basty-bet1/kiberbullin-xalykaralyk-tazhiribe-men-kazakstandagy-zhagdaj/
The randomly selected post analysis indicates that factcheck.kz team always shows the evidence of their claims and in cases of not having or opportunity of checking the claims clearly reports it too. For example, during the factchecking process journalists send official requests and double-check the official resources.
done_all 5.5 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
We accept requests for verification of data and statements on the site using the feedback form https://factcheck.kz/obratnaya-svyaz/ , in our Telegram channel https://t.me/factcheckkz , in personal messages on Facebook and Instagram. Screenshots are attached
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Screenshot_inst2.png (508 KB)
Screenshot_inst3.png (383 KB)
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Screenshot_inst5.png (241 KB)
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The contact form allows us to enter messages and choose between “Do you want to send us a fact to check?” and “Send us feedback about the project”. In addition, the applicant uses the social media channel to accept claims checks.
done_all 5.6 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Factcheck.kz has a corrections or complaints policy that is easily visible and accessible on the website.
done_all 6.1 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
Criteria 6.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the corrections policy to verify it meets critera. No additional information needed.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The resource has a public corrections policy. The policy is divided into short topics and clearly explains what it does and does not cover.
done_all 6.2 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Factcheck.kz provides credible evidence that it makes corrections openly and transparently, seeking as far as possible to ensure that users of the original see the correction and the corrected version. The corrections are framed in different color and easy to spot in the text. The data and the reason of the correction is also provided.
done_all 6.3 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
FCKZ.png (291 KB)
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The link has been checked. The applicant clearly provides the text and link for readers for the complaints page on the IFCN site.
done_all 6.4 marked as Compliant by Askhat Yerkimbay.
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.
Factcheck.kz
06-Jun-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
No, we aren't a unit of a media company
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
11-Jul-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
The team is not a unit of a media company. So this section is not relevant to applicant.