Of all the codes and guidelines followed by Canadian private broadcasters, the Code of Ethics created by the Canadian Association of Broadcasters (CAB) in 1988 has the broadest scope. It covers everything from programming, journalistic standards, advertising, contests and promotions to sex role stereotyping. News broadcasters also follow a similar code, created by the Radio Television News Directors Association (RTNDA) of Canada.
The CAB’s Code of Ethics contains 18 guidelines governing the programming and business conduct of broadcasters. Key commitments include:
A ban on abusive or discriminatory material based on race, ethnicity, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, or physical or mental handicap.
The encouragement of positive social behaviour and attitudes in children's programs.
Fair treatment of all sides of controversial public issues.
Adequate opportunities for presenting religious messages that do not attack other races or religions.
A commitment on the part of station management not to editorialize in news programming, or select items based on personal preferences or prejudices.
The Code of Ethics is administered by the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council (CBSC). To submit a complaint about broadcasting content or activities that may contravene the code, consumers can use the complaint forms on the CBSC and the CRTC Web sites (see right sidebar).
