Become an FCN Signatory
When a fact-checking media organization applies to become an FCN Signatory, independent experts assess its fact-checking methodology. They also review the organization’s policies on non-partisanship, sources of funding and how it ensures readers can independently verify the findings mentioned in its fact-checks. The organisations that pass the assessment become Signatories of the FCN.
Why become an FCN Signatory?
Become part of a growing and collaborative ecosystem
Build trust with the members of
audience
Ensure adherence to the highest standards of fact- checking
How to become an FCN Signatory
What is the eligibility criterion
The organization must be legally registered in India or a unit/department in an organisation exclusively devoted to fact-checking.
The organization's fact-checking activities must have a substantial and demonstrable focus on India
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Fact-checks must be published in English or one of the 22 Schedule VIII languages in the year prior to the date of application.
The organization must have published an average of six fact-checks a month and 75 in a year prior to the date of application.
For under-represented languages, 38 monthly or 75 fact-checks in the 24 months prior to the date of application.
At least 75% of the fact-checks must address issues affecting welfare or interest of individuals, the general public, or society.
Editorial content must not be controlled by the state, political parties, or politicians.
Applicants must disclose any funding from local or foreign political or state sources.
Organizations receiving such funding must declare it on their website.
Fact-check organisations that meet the following criterion can apply for FCN Signatory status
What should you know about FCN Application
Before filling the FCN application form, read the following documents
Application Form Preview
*Kindly note that this pdf of the application form is only for reference. To fill the form, reach out to the FCN Secretariat.
Application Checklist
In the application form, applicants will be asked to submit formal written declarations for the following:
Transparency of funding
Statement on editorial polices
Public corrections and complaints policy
Policy on safeguarding sensitive data
Claim selection methodology
Samples of published fact-check articles
Fact-checking methodology statement
Non-partisanship declaration