CBC News once again faces confusion regarding the use of the terms “terrorist” and “terrorism” in relation to the al-Qaeda attacks on September 11, 2001. The confusion arose from a leaked excerpt from CBC’s internal language guide, causing distress among those who felt the network was downplaying the severity of the attacks. CBC News emphasizes that it does not seek to minimize the tragic events of 9/11 and has extensively covered the attacks and their aftermath over the past 25 years.
As the 25th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, CBC plans to provide extensive and respectful coverage of the tragic events. The network’s reporting on terrorism has always been guided by the principle of attribution, ensuring accuracy and accountability in its coverage. After a review of its language guidance, CBC has decided to clarify that direct attribution is not necessary when describing the events of 9/11 as terrorism.
It is important for CBC News to maintain clarity and transparency in its reporting. The network has never denied that the events of September 11, 2001, were acts of terrorism and has consistently reported on the motives behind the attacks as determined by official investigations. Moving forward, CBC will continue to attribute causes and motivations of acts of violence to officials and experts to uphold journalistic integrity.