Organization: Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
Applicant: Viktorija Cieminytė
Assessor: Askhat Yerkimbay
Background
LRT Faktai is a fact-checking project of LRT, Lithuania's national public broadcaster. It was launched in 2019 to counter misinformation and promote fact-based journalism in Lithuania. LRT Faktai publishes fact-checks on various topics, including politics, health, and science. The project aims to provide citizens with accurate and reliable information to help them make informed decisions.
Assessment Conclusion
LRT Faktai has shown a solid commitment to verifying claims that are important and pertinent to the public interest, specifically related to health, safety, politics, or social issues. Their fact-checks are based on provable evidence and are carried out diligently and transparently, utilizing various sources and expertise to arrive at their conclusions.
Askhat Yerkimbay assesses application as Compliant
A short summary in native publishing language
LRT Faktai parodė tvirtą įsipareigojimą tikrinti teiginius, kurie yra esminiai ir svarbūs visuomenės interesams, konkrečiai susijusiems su sveikata, sauga, politika ar socialiniais klausimais.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The Lithuanian public broadcaster, Lithuanian Radio and Television (LRT), is the media group that is owned by the public - with transparent ownership structure. As a taxpayer-funded institution, LRT’s fundamental mission is to serve the public interest and the public’s right to trustworthy and objective information.
According to the data of a public survey conducted by the opinion research company Baltijos tyrimai, among the seven Lithuanian media groups, LRT received the highest evaluation in 2020 with regard to all assessed characteristics: promotion of culture, education of audience, reliability, promptness, objectivity, and modernity. In 2020, 82% of Lithuania’s residents positively evaluated LRT, which is the highest public evaluation since 2016.
LRT FAKTAI is the project of the third largest online media outlet in Lithuania www.lrt.lt
https://www.lrt.lt/tema/lrt-faktai
All information about our organization's legal status and how this complies with IFCN criteria can be found here: https://apie.lrt.lt/en/about-lrt/the-most-reliable-media, legal documents here: https://apie.lrt.lt/
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant is a legally registered organization whose registration details are easily accessible on its website. The organization has been registered with the appropriate authorities and complies with all legal requirements to operate as a distinct legal entity. The website (https://www.jti-app.com) provides transparent information about the organization's legal status, including its registration number, registration date, and the relevant regulatory body overseeing its operations.
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?
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
1. "LRT Facts' was set up in 2019.
2. Currently there are 3 editors that are doing fact-checks in LRT organization (TV, radio and online)
3. TV and radio broadcasting, as well as news website lrt.lt
4. i) more factchecking stories in television; ii) broader coverage of disinformation trends, disinformation context and research.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The LRT Facts has a small team exclusively set up for fact-checking. The project operates on a separate page. And all its activities are focused on verifying the accuracy and reliability of the information.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The information indicated in the excel file attached proves LRT FAKTAI meet expectations.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant has met the criteria of publishing an average of at least one fact check per week over the six months before the date of application. The fact checks have been published frequently on the applicant's website.
The information is provided in an organized and accessible manner, such as an Excel spreadsheet. This indicates that the applicant has a track record of actively engaging in fact-checking and is committed to providing reliable and accurate information to the public.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
On average, at least 75% of the applicant's fact checks on https://www.lrt.lt/tema/lrt-faktai focus on claims related to issues that, in the view of the IFCN, relate to or could impact the welfare or well-being of individuals, the general public, or society.
The applicant has demonstrated a solid commitment to fact-checking claims that are relevant and significant to the public interest, such as those related to health, safety, politics, or social issues. The materials have been published under those categories.
This shows that the applicant recognizes the importance of providing accurate information on topics directly impacting people's lives and is dedicated to contributing to a more informed and knowledgeable public.
The fact that the applicant has consistently focused on these types of claims indicates that it has a clear sense of purpose and a mission that aligns with the goals of the IFCN.
Overall, the applicant's track record in prioritizing fact-checks related to the welfare or well-being of individuals or society demonstrates a solid commitment to journalistic ethics and values.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
LRT’s annual budget depends directly on the taxes collected in the year before the last. The State allocates 1% of personal income tax and 1.3% of excise duties collected.
This funding model, where the budget is automatically calculated as a fixed share of the taxes collected by the State, has been in place since 2015 and guarantees independence from government institutions as well as commercial revenues and economic lobbying. Stable, targeted, and consistent funding for LRT is important for democracy and pluralism, and helps ensure impartiality. LRT is not allowed to air commercial advertising. In 2020, LRT allocated 61.9% of its budget (EUR 29 million) to content production and 31.6% (EUR 15 million) to personnel. Administrative expenses amounted to 5.1% of total expenditures in 2020. One-fifth of LRT’s annual budget returned to the State budget in the form of various taxes.
LRT does not have any relationship to the politicians or politician parties, neither receives the funding from foreign state or political actors.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The state does not control the LRT's editorial output, a political party, or a politician, as stated in the website documents.
The applicant maintains editorial independence and is committed to impartial and objective reporting.
The applicant's fact-checks are based on verifiable evidence, and the conclusions are drawn independently, without any undue influence from external parties.
This indicates that the applicant is committed to journalistic integrity and holds itself accountable to its readership rather than any political or ideological agenda.
Overall, the applicant has demonstrated a solid commitment to editorial independence and is well-positioned to contribute to the fight against misinformation and disinformation fairly and objectively.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://apie.lrt.lt/api/uploads/LRT_ataskaita_2020_WEB_versija_txt_corr_09_15_3e7973294f.pdf please see page nr. 184.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant has provided legal documents that indicate that its funding model, where the budget is automatically calculated as a fixed share of the taxes collected by the State, has been in place since 2015.
This funding model has been designed to ensure the applicant's independence from political influence and the economic lobbying of the money it receives for advertising. The applicant is not allowed to air commercial advertising.
This indicates that the applicant is committed to providing objective and impartial fact-checking, free from the influence of external parties.
Moreover, the fact that the applicant has provided legal documents verifying its funding model demonstrates high transparency and accountability.
This indicates that the applicant takes their responsibilities as a fact-checking organization seriously and is committed to upholding the values of journalistic integrity.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Above are some examples of LRT fact checking Lithuanian politicians. LRT applies the same standards to all political parties both in the selection process and when investigating the claim. For instance, one of the examples above investigates the claim made by a politician known for his misleading claims regarding vaccination, however, there was a certain case when his criticism was true. LRT fact checks politicians both in opposition and ruling majority.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant fact-checks using the same high standards of evidence and judgment for equivalent claims, regardless of who made a claim.
The applicant has consistently committed to impartiality and objectivity in its fact-checking, and its methodology and criteria are applied equally to all claims, regardless of the source.
The applicant's fact-checks are based on verifiable evidence and are conducted rigorously and transparently, using various sources and expertise to arrive at their conclusions.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant's fact-checking unit, LRT Faktai, has published a short statement on its website explaining how it selects claims to check.
According to this statement, LRT Faktai selects claims based on several criteria, including their reach and importance, relevance to public policy or discourse, and potential impact on public opinion or behavior.
LRT Faktai also seeks to avoid undue concentration on any one side of a political or ideological spectrum and to ensure that its fact-checking is fair and balanced.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant has demonstrated a commitment to transparency and disclosure in its fact-checking, as evidenced by its rules and guidelines for disclosing relevant interests and relationships of sources quoted in fact-checks.
LRT Faktai, the fact-checking unit of the applicant, discloses in its fact-checks any relevant interests or relationships that could reasonably be seen to influence the accuracy of the evidence provided. This includes disclosing any commercial or financial relationships that could influence the findings of the fact check and any political or ideological affiliations of sources quoted.
In addition, LRT Faktai provides examples of its fact checks published over the previous year to demonstrate its adherence to these guidelines. These fact checks disclose any relevant interests or relationships of sources quoted and provide detailed explanations of how the evidence was gathered and evaluated.
Overall, the applicant's commitment to transparency and disclosure in its fact-checking process is demonstrated by its rules and guidelines for disclosing relevant interests and relationships and by its examples of fact-checks published over the previous year.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant's commitment to impartiality and non-partisanship is further demonstrated by its practice of assessing compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year.
By analyzing the content of its fact checks, the applicant can ensure that it is not affiliated with or showing support for any political party, politician, or candidate and does not advocate for or against any particular policy positions.
Instead, the applicant's focus on transparency and accuracy in public debate allows it to serve as a neutral and objective source of public information and promote informed and reasoned discourse on important issues.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant's commitment to non-partisanship is firmly grounded in its Code of Ethics for LRT Journalists and Editorial Policy.
This code sets out the highest standards of journalism, including the principles of accuracy, impartiality, and fairness. In line with these principles, the applicant has established a clear policy on non-partisanship for its staff, prominently displayed on its website.
This policy ensures that the organization's staff do not engage in advocacy or publicize their views on policy issues in a way that the public could perceive as biased. Instead, the applicant's focus on accuracy and transparency ensures that its fact-checking work is grounded in objective evidence and presented fairly and unbiasedly.
Overall, the applicant's commitment to non-partisanship and high standards of journalism serve as a strong foundation for its fact-checking work and ensure that it is a trusted source of information for the public.
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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant ensures transparency and accountability in its fact-checking process by correctly identifying the sources of all significant evidence used.
Whenever possible, LRT Faktai provides relevant links to these sources online, allowing users to access and verify the information presented easily. This increases public trust in the applicant's fact-checking work and allows users to replicate the applicant's methodology and analysis.
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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai's commitment to using primary sources is evident because it introduces the primary source at the beginning of each fact-checking material. By prioritizing primary sources, LRT Faktai aims to provide readers with the most accurate and reliable information possible and to avoid the potential for bias or misinformation from relying on secondary or less reliable sources.
By prioritizing primary sources, LRT Faktai aims to provide readers with the most accurate and reliable information possible and to avoid the potential for bias or misinformation from relying on secondary or less reliable sources.
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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant checks all critical 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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
In its fact checks, the LRT Faktai team identifies any relevant interests that sources may have that could reasonably be seen as potentially impacting the accuracy of the evidence presented. By disclosing these interests, the team ensures that readers have the necessary context to evaluate the evidence and can make informed judgments about its reliability.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant shared a link that provides comprehensive information about its funding for the previous financial year.
LRT's annual budget is directly linked to the taxes collected by the state. Specifically, the state budget allocates funds to LRT equivalent to 1 percent of the income from personal income tax and municipal budgets and 1.3 percent of the previous year's excise revenue.
This financing model is considered advanced as it guarantees a higher level of independence for the public broadcaster from government decisions and advertisers' potential influence.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Legal form: https://apie.lrt.lt/en/management (>Management: statement that LRT is a public institution).
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Although LRT Faktai does not have a direct link to a document specifying its ownership, the organization has made it clear that it is part of a larger media group, and the structure of this media group is readily available to the public.
Screenshot 2023-03-2... (2 MB)
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant's website includes a statement that outlines its organizational structure and provides transparent information about the individuals or groups responsible for exercising editorial control.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant’s website features a page that provides the professional biographies of all individuals who play a significant role in the editorial output, as outlined in the organizational structure.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
To enhance user accessibility and engagement, LRT Faktai offers a user-friendly contact form on its website, allowing users to easily and directly communicate with the editorial team.
Screenshot 2023-03-2... (165 KB)
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The applicant demonstrates transparency and professionalism by making a detailed statement about its fact-checking rules available on its website, which includes methodology, including the criteria used to select, research, write, and publish its fact checks.
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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai primarily selects claims to fact-check based on their significance and impact and, when feasible, explains the selection of the claim.
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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai includes fact-checking evidence that supports and contradicts the claim at hand.
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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai evaluates the validity of evidence in its fact checks using consistent standards for evidence, regardless of the source or claim being examined.
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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Whenever possible, LRT Faktai tries to contact the sources of the claims to obtain supporting evidence and includes a note at the beginning of the material to inform readers about the attempt.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
i) a form that users can fill in, https://www.lrt.lt/projektai/lrt-faktai/siulyk-fakta
ii) a dedicated e-mail address for claims to fact check lrtfaktai@lrt.lt, embedded in every fact checking article.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai invites users to submit claims for fact-checking by offering a form and an email address as means of communication.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai has an easily accessible policy for corrections or complaints that can be found on its 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
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai has a precise corrections or complaints policy on the organization's website.
In addition, the applicant's commitment to non-partisanship is firmly grounded in its Code of Ethics for LRT Journalists and Editorial Policy. This code sets out the highest standards of journalism, including the principles of accuracy, impartiality, and fairness.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
https://www.lrt.lt/naujienos/lietuvoje/2/1478199/lrt-faktai-kepenis-rado-priekabiu-sam-statistikai-ministerija-pripazino-klaida - Lithuanian Ministry of Health responded with an explanation for the faulty statistics provided in their website that caused speculations regarding vaccination process;
https://www.lrt.lt/naujienos/lietuvoje/2/1697717/lrt-faktai-ramina-aistras-ir-griauna-mitus-su-pagalbinio-apvaisinimo-istatymu-i-lietuva-neatkeliaus-surogatine-motinyste - Lithuanian MP Gedvilas insisted to explain his statement made regarding assisted reproduction law.
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai has a precise corrections or complaints policy on the organization's website.
In addition, the applicant's commitment to non-partisanship is firmly grounded in its Code of Ethics for LRT Journalists and Editorial Policy. This code sets out the highest standards of journalism, including the principles of accuracy, impartiality, and fairness.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago
n/a
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai is not currently a signatory.
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.
Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT
21-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Askhat Yerkimbay Assessor
23-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
LRT Faktai is the fact-checking unit of a media company that follows an open and honest corrections policy.
In line with these principles, the applicant has established a clear policy on non-partisanship for its staff, prominently displayed on its website.
This policy ensures that the organization's staff do not engage in advocacy or publicize their views on policy issues in a way that the public could perceive as biased. Instead, the applicant's focus on accuracy and transparency ensures that its fact-checking work is grounded in objective evidence and presented fairly and unbiasedly.
Overall, the applicant's commitment to non-partisanship and high standards of journalism serve as a strong foundation for its fact-checking work and ensure that it is a trusted source of information for the public.