Editorial Note:
The Style Guide was first introduced in 2008, further developed in 2016, and most recently updated in 2025. These updates reflect the collaborative work of editorial teams during their respective terms and will remain in strict focus until another update occurs.
1. Terminology and Language Guidelines
Use politically and historically accurate terms such as 'the nation of Tibet', 'Tibetan independence', 'Chinese occupation of Tibet', 'totalitarian regime', 'pro-democracy voices', and 'freedom of expression'. Avoid language aligning with the Chinese Communist Party's narratives or its associated propaganda.
2. Media and Digital Age Terminology
Incorporate professional digital-era terms such as: digital sovereignty, cyber activism, algorithmic bias, disinformation campaigns, media transparency, platform accountability, and democratic information ecosystems.
3. Pro-Democracy and Pro-Independence Positioning
The editorial stance firmly supports the pro-democracy movement, freedom of speech, and the right of Tibetans to self-determination. Avoid normalising CCP narratives, soft-power euphemisms, or voices representing CCP interests, including certain foreign diplomats, think tanks, or analysts indirectly echoing Beijing’s talking points.
4. Avoiding CCP Propaganda and Influence
Do not use terminology such as 'One China Policy' unless in critical context or rebuttal. Avoid quoting Chinese state-run media unless for analysis or critique. Do not cite sources that uncritically repeat Chinese Communist Party lines. Clearly identify propaganda channels, mouthpieces, or state-influenced outlets when referenced.
5. Confidentiality and Privacy Policy
Writers, editors, and contributors must uphold strict confidentiality with regard to sources, contributors in exile or under threat, and any unpublished information. All data handling complies with international privacy standards, especially when involving sensitive or at-risk communities.
6. References and Citation Style
Use the Harvard Style for all references and citations. Ensure consistency in bibliography formatting, in-text citation, and source verification. Double-check author names, publication years, titles, and URLs for academic accuracy.
Kindly download the full text of the Style Guide and Editorial Positioning in PDF format.
