Organization: Teyit
Applicant: Teyit Medya A.S.- Mehmet Atakan Foca
Assessor: Sarphan Uzunoğlu
Background
As a result of my evaluation of this institution, I was faced with a very successful performance, just like in previous years.
Their answers to questions, the evidence they provide, and all supporting documents prove the value of this institution in Turkey's hyper-polarized political environment and its success in fact-checking. The organization has invested in a stronger editorial human resource with each passing year, and in the field of journalism, Teyit has become stronger in responding to the misinformation crisis of Turkey.
The activities of the institution are in line with both the IFCN principles and the principles of journalism in the global context.
In this context, I propose that the institution's application be approved.
Assessment Conclusion
I completed my evaluation on the basis of the documents you provided and the links you sent. This operation, which I follow closely on the occasion of being my mother tongue, has complied with the principles it has committed to comply with and has proven that it will continue to comply with these principles both in terms of method and practice.
The fact that the publication is becoming more politically bold and methodologically more professional with each passing year is a big win for Turkey's information field.
In addition, the steps taken in the context of institutionalization, investment in sustainability and the attitude of the institution during the earthquake disaster experienced by Turkey came to the fore as positive values.
In this context, I propose that the application be approved
Sarphan Uzunoğlu assesses application as Compliant
A short summary in native publishing language
Verdiğiniz belgeler ve gönderdiğiniz linkler doğrultusunda değerlendirmemi tamamladım. Anadilim olma vesilesiyle yakından takip ettiğim bu operasyon, uymayı taahhüt ettiği ilkelere uygun hareket etmiş ve gerek yöntem gerekse uygulama açısından bu ilkelere uymaya devam edeceğini ispatlamıştır.
Yayıncılığın her geçen yıl politik olarak daha cesur ve metodolojik olarak daha profesyonel hale gelmesi, Türkiye'nin bilişim alanı için büyük bir kazanımdır.
Ayrıca Türkiye'nin yaşadığı deprem felaketinde kurumsallaşma, sürdürülebilirliğe yatırım ve kurumun tutumu bağlamında atılan adımlar olumlu değerler olarak öne çıktı.
Bu kapsamda başvurunun onaylanmasını arz ederim.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago)
Teyit is a not-for-profit social enterprise that focuses on social impact. Because of institutional infrastructure for social enterprises are underway in Turkey Teyit operates under one company (corporation): Teyit Medya A.Ş.
The company, Teyit Medya A.Ş., has promised not to distribute its revenue to shareholders or head of the board.
The trademark of teyit.org is registered by Teyit Medya A.Ş.. The details mentioned above are available on the website’s “Nedir?” (About) page: https://teyit.org/nedir
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago)
The identity of the organization and activities are in line with this criterion.
done_all 1.1 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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?
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago)
1. During times of crisis, misinformation tends to proliferate rapidly and extensively. Teyit, a fact-checking organization, was established on October 26, 2016, in response to the heightened climate of crises in Turkey, with the mission to combat the spread of suspicious and unverified information.
2. Teyit is composed of a dedicated team of eighteen individuals, divided into content, creative, programs, educations, and projects departments. Each department is led by a team leader who streamlines the action and decision-making processes. Furthermore, Teyit collaborates with 28 freelance writers who have been trained by the organization's seasoned fact-checking team. The team members and their respective roles can be viewed at https://teyit.org/ekip.
3. Fact-checking trainings for journalists: These trainings aim to increase the resistance of journalists against disinformation.
- Facts before votes: Accurate information makes accurate decision-making: Young people are key actors in the information ecosystem in Turkey. In order to build resilience against disinformation prior to the upcoming elections, university youth with diverse backgrounds will be empowered with critical thinking and fact-checking skills, which in turn, allow them to meaningfully participate in and safeguard democracy.
- Empowering teachers with critical digital literacy skills: Teacher’s Network and Teyit worked with 39 teachers from 19 different cities, different branches, and various backgrounds for the first phase of the project. The project allows teachers to create and spread resources through a peer-to-peer approach. It allows them to learn fact-checking and critical thinking together and empower students.
- #teyitpedia: Our content format on our website called #teyitpedia, where we share the latest news about misinformation, false news, and fact-checking; prepare guides; and share tips on dealing with misinformation online. It aims to reach out to the Turkish-speaking community and it is an effort to expand the fact-checking and information ecosystem literature in Turkish. In addition to original articles, we regularly translate, adapt and localize educational content.
- Translations : We regularly translate, adapt and localize educational content. This includes the translation of articles on #teyitpedia and the translation of Verification Handbooks, for instance.
- Publications: We have published 17 reports, researches on significant issues like elections, conflicts and psychology of misinformation along with translations, such as Verification Handbook. - Greenwashing: In order to make people aware against greenwashing by brands, we are publishing longform articles that examine the anatomy of greenwashing with its relation to dis/misinformation problem.
4. The information disorder, which creates the misinformation problem, is one of the biggest problems for the information ecosystem.
Teyit seeks to contribute to a world where critical thinking is the common ground of the information ecosystem. Since Teyit enhances its activities in accordance with this ultimate goal, through system-changing attribution, day by day.
For coming year Teyit's fact-checking team is aiming to contribute the system with different perspectives.
While Teyit continues its routine publications, it also aims to provide people with accurate and data-based information on more complex topics through in-depth research. Focusing on the climate disinformation and covering 2023 election will be our priority. Freelance journalists who are unemployed and unable to work due to the conditions of the media ecosystem will be able to produce content for these works.
Improving visibility and access by developing more visual-based content formats through the creative team, including the short videos for fact-checking tips and tools, social videos and infographics on fact-checks, podcast episodes for the understanding context of misinformation, digital marketing products which the community of Teyit can interact and humorously spread the word.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago)
1. Properly explained.
2. Detailes are provided about roles and responsibilities of team members.
3. Side activities are well explained.
4. Goals are well defined.
done_all 1.2 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago)
We publish several fact checks a week. You can find them on the attachment.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Their frequency of publication is very satisfactory and efficient.
done_all 1.3 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Teyit.org has changed their editorial understanding in a very positive way in last couple of years. They became more brave regarding fact-checking highly controversial politically disinformative content and they have done a very good job. In post-pandemic world, while many fact-checkers have found comfort in science and health-related news, Teyit's focus on difficult stories is adorable.
done_all 1.4 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago)
Teyit maintains no commercial or institutional affiliations with the state, politicians, or political parties. The organization upholds transparency in its funding relationships, which are openly detailed on the following webpage: https://teyit.org/finansal-kaynaklar.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
In the context of IFCN principles and the institution's own values, Teyit.org avoids financial or editorial relations with such political actors. They are also very transparent about their financial sources since 2020.
done_all 1.5 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago)
Editorial decisions at Teyit are made collectively by the editorial team. The board of directors, partners, investors, funders, and the administrative teams of both the company and the association are not involved in the decision-making processes for editorial content. More information on this policy can be found at https://teyit.org/yayin-ilkeleri.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
In addition to the documents they provide, Teyit.org, whose editorial flow I know because of communication with its reporters and editors, has an egalitarian and effective editorial structure and communication management system in line with current technological developments.
done_all 1.6 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago)
When investigating a case, we diligently research sources from various political orientations and consider them, irrespective of the source's perspective. In contentious situations, we ensure that opinions from both sides are included. We maintain a balance between the parties involved in the cases we examine. In accordance with our impartiality principle, all analyses published by Teyit undergo two rounds of review by different editors before publication. Here are some examples:
https://teyit.org/demec-kontrolu-sinirlarimiz-acik-suriyeliler-gelmeye-devam-ediyor-iddiasi
https://teyit.org/demec-kontrolu-kisi-basina-milli-gelirin-dunyada-yalniz-turkiyede-dustugu-iddiasi
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
As I mentioned in my previous review of Teyit application, Turkey is a country where there is a strong polarization. But it is not possible to speak of a simple two-sided polarity relationship. Very different groups can meet with very different ideas. This necessitates diversification in the selection and analysis of demands.
In my review, I found out this year that impartiality is still an aspect of both the selection and processing of claims and the selection of sources.
The institution maintains the principle of impartiality by taking the risk of being harmed most of the time in this very tense political atmosphere.
They displayed a principle-based and balanced perspective in their publications, even on topics that are of great interest to the masses and open to disinformation, such as the earthquake and the elections.
done_all 2.1 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago)
The page at https://teyit.org/yayin-ilkeleri outlines our editorial rules, methodology, and selection criteria for claims. By clicking on the "Editöryal Kurallar" tab, visitors can access the guidelines for selecting claims.
To manage time effectively, we prioritize claims based on three criteria:
Verifiability: We first check if the claim can be verified using data and concrete evidence. We do not investigate topics based on alleged conversations between individuals or groups unless there is a way to determine their accuracy without being present during the conversation. Predictions, claims about the future, and assumptions about expected events are also not investigated. Unverifiable claims, such as interpersonal conversations, interpretations, assertions containing assumptions or predictions for the future, and events from the distant past that cannot be traced, are eliminated at this stage.
Importance, Virality, and Urgency: Among the verifiable claims, we prioritize those that meet the criteria for importance, virality (in normal times), and urgency (in times of crisis). This does not mean we will not create content that is not viral; rather, we prioritize virality among multiple pieces of work.
Virality: Content that is being widely discussed by internet users and has a certain number of shares. The virality criteria may vary depending on the social media platform where the suspicious news is being spread.
Importance: Content that can impact individuals, communities, groups, systems, rights, or democracy.
Urgency: Content that arises during moments of crisis, marked by emotional upheaval, social anger, and fear, and requires verification even if it is not viral. Crises include periods of emotional elevation, traumatic events, increased polarization in society, heightened hate speech related to events, election periods, systemic changes, and natural or human-caused disasters.
Once a claim meets these criteria, the investigation begins after assigning it to an appropriate reviewer. Claims that fall outside these prioritization criteria are archived and may be re-evaluated for publication when they meet the criteria over time.
Political Fact-Checking Project
Teyit monitors the statements of political party leaders, party spokespersons, influential politicians, and active politicians with over 2 million followers on Twitter. It scans party websites, news in the media, and social media posts. The speeches of politicians participating in television programs are followed through live broadcasts or platforms such as YouTube.
Politicians' parliamentary speeches are monitored via the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) website or Parliament TV. Claims made during politicians' speeches at rallies can be examined through live broadcasts or recorded footage.
Using Google Alerts, Teyit stays up-to-date with politicians' comments, claims, and speeches based on keywords and key phrases. Videos shared on political parties' YouTube accounts are also part of the scanning process.
When determining politicians' statements containing claims to be analyzed, the principle of verifiability is prioritized. For a claim to meet the verifiability principle, the suspicious information stated by the politician must be refutable or verifiable based on open sources and information accessible to everyone.
Insider information in politics that has a reference value or conversations behind closed doors cannot be investigated, as they cannot be verified by open and reliable sources. Additionally, claims based on personal accusations between politicians cannot be examined.
Teyit identifies the top five topics it will primarily examine among politicians' claims by referencing research with international-standard methodologies and surveys conducted by different institutions targeting Turkish citizens. These topics are the "important problems" according to Turkish voters.
These topics are:
Economy and employment
Education
Refugees and migration
National security
Justice
When determining the claims to be examined, Teyit ensures that it primarily addresses claims that provoke anger in society, fuel conflict, deepen polarization, and could trigger hate crimes.
Furthermore, Teyit prioritizes issues related to climate and gender equality, which, according to academic research and survey studies would be beneficial for Turkey's long-term progress and fall outside the five main topics mentioned above.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The institution has been successful in sticking to its methodology as well as in the context of applying the principles.
The prioritization and selection criteria they set and the definitions of these criteria are valid and effective in both academic and practical contexts.
The application of the methodology in the content they reveal can also be followed as a template.
Instead of a free and story-based fact-checking logic, this approach that sticks to the methodology is admirable.
done_all 2.2 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
I have not come across any example that violates the criteria or has problems with this criterion.
done_all 2.3 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
There is no political inclination to support any candidate on the editorial board, neither among reporters nor in the administration. Institutionally, such a trend cannot be mentioned.
done_all 2.4 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Currently, on the page https://teyit.org/yayin-ilkeleri it is stated that the editorial principles must comply with the principles of the International Fact-Checking Check Network, as well as the mission of the institution and the principles of independent journalism.
Teyit will also ensure the editorial independence of its work through Conflict of Interest documents (attached). It is one of the documents that should be signed by team members.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Non-partisanship policy and editorial standards are provided publicly to the audience from a very accessible link.
done_all 2.5 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Resources are referenced with links or different types of referencing where necessary.
done_all 3.1 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Although Turkey is an area where it is difficult to reach primary sources on some issues, Teyit.org has shown the best possible performance with primary and secondary sources despite all the limitations.
done_all 3.2 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
I've seen no case that contradicts this criteria.
done_all 3.3 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Relevant former titles, relations or stances taken in former votes or campaigns are always mentioned.
done_all 3.4 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The required document has been provided by the institution.
done_all 4.1 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Necessary information and documents regarding the structure of the institution and the activities of the institution have been submitted.
done_all 4.2 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Teyit shares the process of editorial control on page https://teyit.org/yayin-ilkeleri. On this link, the chart on the Editorial process can be seen on "Yazı İşleri Nasıl Çalışıyor?" tab. A Head of Editorial, one Editor, and two Writers is responsible for the editorial decision-making processes. Team members can be seen on page https://teyit.org/ekip.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
There is a specific page dedicated to the statement about related criteria and it is accessible to everyone.
done_all 4.3 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Biographies of employees and people with administrative roles are clearly defined on the website.
done_all 4.4 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
On our website, key Teyit team members can be reached via email on the designated page: https://teyit.org/ekip
Additionally, we strive to encourage users to submit claims using our WhatsApp number and email address. To facilitate this, we've added a banner to our site. Users can also get in touch with us through our contact page: https://teyit.org/bize-ulasin
Moreover, we've integrated a system called Intercom to provide users with an alternative method for submitting claims. This system is accessible to everyone via our webpage.
As a general rule, we aim to respond to all emails and comments containing questions or requests within 24 hours, whether the response is positive or negative.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
I see no problem about this criteria. It is very obvious that Teyit is one of the platforms that attaches the most importance to communication between its analysts and its readers. They do this with the contact methods they enabled and contact information clearly stated on their website.
done_all 4.5 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Please see our “Yayın İlkeleri” page: https://teyit.org/yayin-ilkeleri
Especially “Editöryal Kurallar” tab
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
A broad and understandable explanation of the methodology and editorial rules is available on the website.
done_all 5.1 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
In accordance with the methodology, the claims to be worked on are decided. Claims to be worked on are decided in accordance with the methodology. I have not come across an example that violates this rule, or a story that has not been stubbornly studied despite the importance of the claim and complies with the review criteria.
done_all 5.2 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
In a neutral language, information that can serve different arguments from different sources is evaluated and presented.
done_all 5.3 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The nature of the claim, supporting evidence and concrete links are taken into account rather than the claimant.
done_all 5.4 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Principles, requirements of journalism practices, technical possibilities and legal possibilities are studied in accordance with the methodology. A related sequence is followed.
done_all 5.5 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Teyit followers can submit content they find suspicious through various channels, such as the Intercom system, email (info@teyit.org), Twitter mentions, our contact page (https://teyit.org/bize-ulasin), our WhatsApp report line at +90 (546) 474 54 40, or our Telegram account.
Our website clearly outlines what is considered checkable or uncheckable under the "editorial rules" section. Due to the high volume of reports we receive, we are unable to respond to all submissions and provide explanations for our decisions. However, we occasionally publish articles on our website that explain how we prioritize cases and make editorial decisions: https://teyit.org/isimize-geleni-mi-teyitliyoruz
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Teyit.org is actively encouraging users to send claims or pieces to fact-check. They have multiple channels to enable the active contribution of community. Multiple channels (public or private) are being used.
done_all 5.6 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Teyit Fact Check operation follows correction policy, which can be found our “Yayın İlkeleri” page: https://teyit.org/yayin-ilkeleri
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Their complaints and correction policy is publicly available in a visible spot on their website under their editorial principles page.
done_all 6.1 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
Criteria 6.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the corrections policy to verify it meets critera. No additional information needed.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Since the past years, I have not encountered a problem in Teyit's error correction policy. In general, their methodological approach to this issue and their practical actions are also satisfactory.
done_all 6.2 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
At Teyit, we occasionally make corrections to our content in cases such as:
New developments on the subject
Mistakes made
Additional evidence obtained, etc.
As outlined in our Editorial Guideline accessible on our website, the correction process functions as follows:
When any changes to an analysis are required, anyone accessing the analysis written by Teyit will be able to see them. This does not include correcting material or minor errors.
If new data emerges on a published analysis and requires an update based on this new information, the update is announced. Updates are indicated at the bottom of the analysis, explaining the date, time, and nature of the changes. Updates are not announced via social media.
If there is suspicion of an error in the written analysis, the review process is restarted. If the request for review comes from readers, the source is requested. During the review process, the principle of resource accessibility is followed. If an error is detected, the correction date is indicated at the bottom of the analysis.
If the error could change the result of the analysis or unfairly affect an individual or institution, an apology is made via social media. The editor determines the nature of the apology.
Analyses with corrections that require a change in the result continue to be disseminated until they reach the same number of people as the initial version.
If another update or correction is required, the same steps are repeated.
If a Teyit analysis is refuted by legal means, the correction policy is followed. If an error is detected, the refutation is published and the content is removed with a statement.
Our followers and readers play a crucial role in these corrections. When we receive reports of an error or deficiency, we promptly update the text and, if necessary, announce it on social media.
Additionally, we have a conflict resolution policy. If there is disagreement between Teyit and a publisher regarding a fact-check, an impartial mediator is reached, provided both parties agree to the arbitration. If that doesn't work, Facebook's appeal mechanism is applied as a last resort. If the problem is between Teyit and a newsroom in Turkey, we try to resolve the issue. If we cannot, we consult Faruk Bildirici, a prominent ombudsman in Turkey.
Throughout the year, we made various minor corrections, but in only one article we changed our mixed result to false.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The examples given are consistent with the organization's statement on its correction policy. While there are no major errors, a fair correction and announcement mechanic is activated for minor errors as well.
done_all 6.3 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Teyit
22-Mar-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
They provide a link in their about page.
done_all 6.4 marked as Compliant by Sarphan Uzunoğlu.
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.
Sarphan Uzunoğlu Assessor
05-Apr-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
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