Core principles

At OPB, it’s our belief that while artificial intelligence has the potential to empower journalism, it should never replace the judgment, curiosity or accountability of journalists. AI may help with tasks like research, transcription or data analysis, but it does not make editorial decisions. Journalists remain responsible for every story we publish, every product we develop and every way audiences engage with our journalism.

Our approach is grounded in core journalistic values: accuracy, transparency, accountability, independence and service to the public. OPB applies the same standards to AI-assisted work that we apply to all journalism.

This policy is a living document and will continue to evolve as we thoughtfully and responsibly experiment with this emerging technology and as the technology itself evolves.

People first

OPB does not use AI to reduce staffing or replace journalists. AI is used to support, not substitute, editorial and other work.

Transparency

When staff use AI to contribute to something that is seen or used by the public, OPB will disclose its use. Disclosures will describe what AI was used for (for example, transcription or data analysis). When relevant, OPB may also explain prompts or methods used to generate AI-assisted material.

Accuracy and human accountability

All AI-generated or AI-assisted material must be reviewed, verified, and approved by OPB journalists and editors before publication. OPB does not publish information generated by AI without human fact-checking. Journalists remain fully responsible for the accuracy of all published content, including any material supported by AI tools.

Privacy and data protection

OPB’s relationship with its audience and sources depends on trust, and that includes how we handle data when using AI tools. We do not upload unpublished reporting, sensitive source material or confidential newsroom information into public AI systems. This includes interview transcripts, reporter notes, off-the-record conversations and other non-public materials.

Commitment to fair and equitable reporting

OPB is committed to reflecting a wide range of voices in our journalism. AI systems are trained on existing data and can carry forward gaps, inaccuracies or bias. When OPB uses AI in its reporting process, we review outputs for missing context and misleading framing. We rely on original reporting, diverse sourcing and editorial judgment to present a full and accurate picture. AI does not replace reporting from communities, independent verification or editorial responsibility.

We acknowledge the environmental impact associated with the use of AI systems and commit to being mindful of resource efficiency in their application.