The mission statement of The Organization of News Ombudsmen

1. The news ombudsman is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of journalism by encouraging respectful and truthful discourse about journalism’s practices and purposes.
2. The news ombudsman’s primary objective is to promote transparency within his / her news organization.
3. The ombudsman works to protect press freedom and promote responsible, high-quality journalism.
4. Part of the ombudsman’s role is to receive and investigate complaints about news reporting on behalf of members of the public.
5. The ombudsman recommends the most suitable course of action to resolve issues raised in complaints.
6. The ombudsman is an independent officer acting in the best interests of news consumers.
7. The ombudsman strives to remain completely neutral and fair.
8. The ombudsman refrains from engaging in any activity that could create a conflict of interest.
9. The ombudsman explains the roles and obligations of journalism to the public.
10. The ombudsman acts as a mediator between the expectations of the public and the responsibilities of journalists.