An analysis of the Editorial Statute of the different news media points to the main idea of independence:
Radio Renascença: Emphasizes the catholic affiliation of the station and, therefore, insists mostly on Human Rights and on the defence of the dignity of all human beings. It also insists on the need for pluralistic, comprehensive, objective and honest information, with respect for journalistic professional standards and journalism ethics.
RTP: The particular social responsibility of a public television station is stressed in the company’s mission statement, together with the need for “accurate and independent” information. Independence from any kind of power is stressed, because the station must be committed only “with its duty to inform citizens”.
Público: The newspaper insists it is totally independent from any kind of political or economic powers, considering itself responsible to its readers, and nobody else. It stresses that “the existence of a well-informed and active public opinion is a fundamental condition for democracy and for the existence of an open, dynamic society”.
Destak: In its very short Statute, this free newspaper says it will be “independent from any political or economic power”, also refusing any ideological influence.
Expresso: The issue of independence from any powers (including “its advertisers”) is referred to as well. It insists that news media should not serve any particular interests; they should always be “autonomous institutions through which the citizens (…) can look for all the information they need to make their choices”.
Correio da Manhã: “Total independence” from all “powers and interests”, whether economic, political, religious or professionals, is underlined by this newspaper. Furthermore, it states it will be “firm” in condemning any “abuse of power”. Only indirectly do the news media refer to their watchdog mission or to their commitment to investigate and control the different powers present in society.
