Internal act · Radio Sloboda 2.0

Approved by the Editorial Board of Radio Sloboda · Kraljevo, 2024

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Radio Sloboda believes that independent journalism is strongest when it reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. We are committed to an inclusive, respectful and equitable workplace where every employee, contributor, volunteer, partner and community member is treated with dignity, regardless of personal background or identity.

Our Commitment. Diversity is not only an organisational value — it is essential to producing accurate, representative and trustworthy journalism. As part of Radio Sloboda 2.0, we are committed to ensuring that our editorial practices, organisational culture and audience engagement reflect the diversity of our local community and the wider diaspora we serve.

1 Our Values

Radio Sloboda is guided by the following principles, which apply equally to our workplace culture and editorial content:

  • Respect for human dignity
  • Equal opportunity
  • Inclusion
  • Fair representation
  • Editorial independence
  • Non-discrimination
  • Accessibility
  • Transparency
  • Accountability

2 Scope

This policy applies to: employees, editors, journalists, freelancers, contributors, volunteers, board members, contractors, interns and external partners.

It also applies to: recruitment, employment, promotion, training, editorial work, public events, online communities, membership programmes and audience-engagement activities.

3 Equal Opportunities

Radio Sloboda provides equal opportunities in all aspects of employment. No individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of:

  • gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation;
  • age, race, ethnicity, nationality, language;
  • religion or belief, disability, health status;
  • marital or family status, political opinion, socio-economic background;
  • any other legally protected characteristic.

Employment decisions shall be based solely on qualifications, competence and organisational needs.

4 Inclusive Recruitment and Career Development

We strive to attract candidates from diverse backgrounds. Recruitment processes will be transparent, merit-based, free from bias and accessible to all qualified candidates.

Professional development opportunities shall be available equally to all employees, and leadership opportunities should reflect fairness, competence and diversity.

5 Inclusive Editorial Content

Diversity is reflected not only in our staff but also in our journalism. Radio Sloboda is committed to ensuring that editorial content:

  • represents diverse voices;
  • includes underrepresented communities;
  • avoids stereotypes;
  • uses respectful and inclusive language;
  • reflects the realities of all members of society.

Editorial decisions should actively seek perspectives that are often absent from mainstream public debate.

6 Diversity in the Workplace

We promote a culture where every individual feels respected, heard, valued, safe and included. Differences of opinion are welcomed when expressed respectfully and constructively, and managers are responsible for fostering an inclusive working environment.

7 Safe, Respectful and Harassment-Free Environment

Radio Sloboda has zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, bullying, intimidation, retaliation, hate speech, sexual harassment and abuse of authority.

Every complaint will be handled confidentially, fairly and without retaliation against the reporting individual.

8 Accessibility and Reasonable Accommodation

Radio Sloboda is committed to removing barriers that may prevent full participation. Where reasonably possible, we will provide:

  • accessible communication;
  • flexible working arrangements;
  • reasonable workplace adjustments;
  • accessible digital content;
  • inclusive events and public-engagement activities.

Accessibility is an organisational responsibility, not an individual burden.

9 Training and Awareness

Employees will receive regular opportunities to strengthen their understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion, unconscious bias, inclusive communication, accessibility and ethical reporting on vulnerable communities. Training shall be integrated into professional development.

10 Reporting, Investigation and Accountability

Anyone who experiences or witnesses discrimination or harassment may report concerns through confidential internal procedures. Radio Sloboda commits to:

  • investigating complaints promptly;
  • ensuring confidentiality;
  • protecting individuals from retaliation;
  • taking appropriate corrective action where necessary.

The Editorial Board will oversee the implementation of this policy.

11 Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

Radio Sloboda will review this policy annually. The review will consider workforce diversity, editorial representation, audience feedback, legal developments, best international practices and lessons learned through implementation. Recommendations will be incorporated into future organisational planning and editorial practice.

Final Statement. Radio Sloboda believes that diversity, equity and inclusion are fundamental to credible journalism and sustainable public trust. By fostering an inclusive workplace and ensuring fair representation in our reporting, we strengthen our mission to serve the public interest. Through Radio Sloboda 2.0, we reaffirm our commitment to building a newsroom and a community where every voice has the opportunity to be heard, respected and represented.
In Kraljevo, 2024
Editorial Board · Radio Sloboda