"The purpose of this handbook is to examine how journalists can fulfil their duties within a framework of producing high quality, ethical journalism that is responsive to the needs of the community. The handbook aims to give Sri Lankan journalists an appreciation of their role in society with particular emphasis on journalism driven by public service values. This report looks at ways individual journalists can play their part in overcoming these problems as part of the peace-building process and the advancement of Sri Lankan society. More importantly, it would allow the media to fulfil its role as the watchdog of an informed democratic society. It proposes, as a solution, that journalists strive for increased professionalism using the public service journalism model as the basis for change. The book explains the role of the journalist with particular regard to producing high quality ethical journalism that informs and engages the public – a vital element in the creation of a vibrant democracy. Checklists are useful in changing behaviour by implementing a new practical way of doing work. The checklists that appear throughout the handbook offer ways to ensure high quality ethical journalism that meets the values of public service journalism. The handbook is part of a strategy to encourage the support of journalists, editors and media owners to transform Sri Lanka’s media with the broad support of the community." (How to use this handbook, page 4)