South Sudan Regional Network Charter

This charter defines the shared principles guiding regional and local information platforms operating across [South Sudan](NilePulse://generic-entity?number=0).

Preamble

The UpperNileToday.com its a division of NilePulse- South Sudan Regional Network a community-first information network committed to responsible, ethical, and regionally grounded publishing. Its purpose is to strengthen access to accurate local information, preserve community voices, and reduce harm caused by misinformation, incitement, and unsafe reporting.

Trust is built locally. Accountability is maintained regionally. Integrity guides all publication.

1. Network Structure

The network operates as a federated system, not a centralised authority.

• Local platforms document town- or county-level updates
• Regional hubs aggregate verified information and provide context
• Each platform retains editorial independence within shared standards

2. Editorial Independence

All platforms are independent and non-partisan. The network is not affiliated with political parties, armed groups, or state institutions. Editorial decisions are free from political or financial influence.

3. Verification & Labelling

All published updates must be clearly labelled:

• Confirmed — verified by multiple sources or reliable evidence
• Developing — credible but still being verified
• Unconfirmed — shared cautiously and clearly marked

4. Safety First

Human safety takes priority over speed or reach. Information that could endanger individuals or communities is not published. Identifying details may be withheld or removed when necessary.

5. No Hate, No Incitement

The network does not publish hate speech, ethnic or religious incitement, threats, or calls for violence — regardless of source.

6. Privacy & Dignity

Privacy, dignity, and consent are respected. Grief, trauma, and personal matters are handled with care. Anonymous submissions are permitted.

7. Corrections & Accountability

Errors are corrected transparently. When mistakes occur, content is updated promptly and corrections are noted where appropriate.

8. Contributor Participation

Contributions are welcome from residents, diaspora members, elders, youth, and observers. Submissions may be edited for clarity, safety, and accuracy.

9. Financial Integrity

The network does not accept payment to publish, suppress, or alter editorial content. Financial independence protects credibility.

10. Shared Identity

Platforms operating under this charter may identify as:

Part of the South Sudan Regional Information Network

Closing Statement

Information is powerful. Used responsibly, it connects communities, preserves truth, and reduces harm.

This charter exists to protect readers, contributors, and communities — and to ensure that information serves the public good.