CivilNet becomes first Armenian outlet to earn Journalism Trust Initiative certification

CivilNet has completed an independent audit under the Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI) and received the international certification for trustworthy journalism, becoming the first Armenian outlet to complete the full JTI process.

The certificate was issued on July 2, 2026, and is valid until July 1, 2028.

JTI is an ISO-type international standard created by Reporters Without Borders, known by its French acronym RSF. Rather than assessing the content or editorial stance of individual publications, the standard evaluates media outlets' editorial processes, dividing its 130 certification criteria into two main sections: identity and transparency, and professionalism and accountability.

The certification process has three stages: familiarization with the standard, a self-assessment, followed by publication of a transparency report, and finally an external audit by an independent organization. Certification is granted only if the audit confirms that an outlet's practices meet JTI requirements.

CivilNet's audit examined its editorial rules and workflows, including its fact-checking and editorial oversight systems, correction mechanisms, funding and governance transparency, rules on the use of anonymous sources, journalist safety, and public communication practices.

The certification is significant because compliance is confirmed by an independent audit rather than by an outlet's own declaration. It sends a signal across the digital ecosystem, particularly to online platforms, and can help improve a media outlet's visibility in search results. For CivilNet, the certification represents an independent evaluation of editorial principles developed over the years, affirming its commitment to accurate, honest, and responsible journalism.

More than 2,600 media outlets across 135 countries currently use JTI standards, according to the Journalism Trust Initiative. More than 900 of them have published transparency reports, with some outlets continuing the process through independent, third-party certification audits.