CBC News has revised its internal language guidelines to clarify that describing the September 11 attacks as 'terrorism' no longer requires direct attribution. This move follows public outcry over leaked documents.
- CBC News is adjusting its journalistic guidance regarding the terminology used for the 9/11 attacks.
- The organization will no longer require specific attribution to label the 9/11 attacks as 'terrorism.'
- This decision aims to resolve confusion caused by a leaked internal document that lacked context.
CBC News has officially addressed the recent controversy surrounding its journalistic standards, specifically regarding the use of the terms 'terrorist' and 'terrorism' in relation to the September 11, 2001, attacks. The organization is adjusting its internal language guide to provide greater clarity and prevent future misunderstandings.
The controversy erupted following the leak of an internal excerpt that many interpreted as an attempt to minimize the gravity of the al-Qaeda attacks on New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. Many critics argued that the guidance suggested a hesitation to call the event terrorism without official sourcing, leading to significant public anger and hurt.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the tension between journalistic neutrality and historical fact is a delicate balance. For decades, CBC, like many major news outlets, adhered to the principle of 'attribution'—attributing descriptions of terrorism to officials or experts to maintain an appearance of objective distance. However, in the case of 9/11, the event is an established historical fact, and the requirement for attribution was seen by many as an unnecessary impediment to clear reporting.
Precision in language is the cornerstone of public trust in journalism.
By removing the requirement for attribution for the 9/11 attacks, CBC aims to ensure that its reporting reflects the undeniable nature of the tragedy. Basem Boshra, Senior Director of Journalistic Standards and Public Trust, emphasized that CBC has never denied that 9/11 was an act of terrorism.
Historical Background
The September 11 attacks remain one of the most significant geopolitical events of the 21st century. The coordinated attacks by al-Qaeda resulted in thousands of deaths and fundamentally altered global security policies, international relations, and the way news organizations report on ideological violence.
| Context | Previous Practice | New Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| 9/11 Attacks | Required attribution to officials/experts | Direct labeling as terrorism permitted |
| New Terrorist Acts | Requires direct attribution | Requires direct attribution |
It is important to note that this policy change is specific to the 9/11 attacks. For all new, ongoing, or emerging instances of politically or ideologically motivated violence, CBC News will continue to follow the standard practice of attributing motives and causes to official sources and experts to maintain journalistic rigor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does this mean CBC is changing its stance on 9/11?
No. CBC maintains that 9/11 was terrorism; the change simply removes the procedural need to cite a source every time the term is used for this specific historical event.
2. Will CBC stop using attribution for other terrorist attacks?
No. For all current and future events, CBC will continue to attribute claims of terrorism to authorities and experts.
