Cyprus

[CY] New addition to the Code of Ethics for Journalists in Cyprus: special provision on artificial intelligence

IRIS 2025-8:1/14

Antigoni Themistokleous

Cyprus Radiotelevision Authority

In late August 2025, the Cypriot press council, namely the Cyprus Media Ethics Committee (CMEC), announced the introduction of a new special provision to the Code of Ethics for Journalists in Cyprus. This new provision, entitled "Artificial Intelligence", addresses the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in the production and facilitation of journalistic work and media operations.

The Code of Ethics for Journalists establishes the ethical principles and professional standards and defines the rights and responsibilities of media practitioners in Cyprus. On 27 August 2025, the CMEC publicly announced the new special provision in the Code of Ethics for Journalists in Cyprus via its official Facebook page. The provision reads as follows:

"The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in the production or facilitation of journalistic work and media operations must be carried out responsibly, transparently, and in full compliance with the provisions of this code, including those relating to accuracy and reliability, the avoidance of false news, proper use of sources and information, and the protection of intellectual property."

Media professionals are obliged to clearly and visibly declare when any material they publish, broadcast, or post has been produced using AI technologies. They also play a leading role in the governance of such technologies within media organisations, overseeing and regulating their use, while avoiding tools they have not been properly trained to use.

The new special provision has been ratified by the founding parties of the CMEC, thereby formally amending the Code of Ethics for Journalists. The CMEC stated that, acknowledging the role of generative AI tools in journalism and in the production of diverse content, it had conducted a thorough review and analysis of measures and relevant practices already implemented by other press councils, as well as leading international and European journalistic bodies, to finalise and adopt the provision on the use of generative AI tools in media practices.

It should be noted that the Code of Ethics for Journalists, while voluntary, is binding and applies to all media – including the press, broadcasters, and digital outlets – as well as both the public service broadcaster and private/commercial organisations. Additionally, the Code of Ethics for Journalists is binding on all professionals operating within these media entities.