Al Jazeera Style Guide Prohibits Calling ISIS a ‘Terrorist’ Organization

Al Jazeera has made significant changes to its editorial guidelines in its 2023-2024 style guide. The outlet published specific instructions on how its staff should refer to groups like ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Boko Haram. These instructions favor neutral terms over terms commonly associated with extremism.

Neutral Terminology for Extremist Groups

According to the style guide, Al Jazeera prohibits its reporters from labeling ISIS and other similar groups as “terrorist” or “Islamist.” Instead, the guide encourages the use of terms like “fighters” or “armed groups.” This reflects a broader approach to how radical Islam is portrayed in their reporting.

• ISIS: Referred to as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).
• Al-Qaeda: Similarly categorized as an armed group.
• Boko Haram: Described as fighting against Western influence and striving to impose Islamic law in Nigeria.

Citations and Context

The style guide specifies that terms like “terrorism” and “terrorists” may only be used with proper attribution. For example, a report might state, “The ISIL armed group has claimed responsibility for an attack.” This policy reflects an effort to provide context without appearing judgmental.

Controversial Contextualization

Notably, the style guide addresses historical events with sensitivity. When discussing historical atrocities, such as those committed against Armenians during World War I, Al Jazeera advises the use of “mass killings” instead of “genocide.” This stance has drawn criticism from various media insiders.

• Armenian Mass Killings: Terms like “genocide” can only be used when quoting others.
• Srebrenica: The 1995 massacre of over 8,000 Muslims is explicitly labeled as genocide.

Language Guidelines

Further, the guide outlines restrictions on terms associated with Islam. The term “jihad” is discouraged, along with the words “Islamist” and “fundamentalist.” Instead, the guide advocates for descriptions based on actions and aims, providing a more nuanced portrayal of individuals and groups.

These editorial choices aim to foster a more balanced view, avoiding terms deemed excessively judgmental. Al Jazeera seeks to allow audiences to form their own opinions based on the context provided.

As the media landscape evolves, Al Jazeera’s guidelines reflect an ongoing debate about language, representation, and the portrayal of complex issues in global reporting.