The ethics of using anonymous sources in journalistic investigations: Perceptions of Kazakhstani citizens

Shynggys Atay, Aizhan Burkitbayeva

The New Research of Tuva, 2026

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DOI 10.25178/nit.2026.2.17
Data confidence 70 medium
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Abstract

This article examines the ethics of using anonymous sources in journalistic investigations considering perceptions of Kazakhstan’s citizens. Contemporary journalism often faces the need to work with anonymous sources. This raises questions about the reliability, ethicality and safety of this practice. The aim of the study is to analyze citizens’ attitudes toward the use of anonymous sources in journalistic investigations within the context of Kazakhstani society. The research objectives are to identify their perceptions of the risks and benefits of using anonymous information in journalism. To achieve these objectives, a survey was conducted among 100 respondents from various social groups not directly involved in journalistic activities. The study included questions regarding the significance of journalistic investigations, attitudes toward anonymous sources, trust in investigative results and opinions on the sufficiency of legal protection for journalists and their sources in Kazakhstan. An analysis of the results has shown that most of the respondents support the use of anonymous sources, but they express concerns about potential manipulation, information distortion and loss of trust in the media. Notably, 70% of the respondents consider the protection of journalists’ and anonymous sources’ rights in Kazakhstan to be insufficient, highlighting the need for legal reforms to improve safety and confidentiality. The article also offers recommendations for improving journalistic practice, including enhancing legal protection for journalists, increasing transparency and information verification, as well as adhering to ethical standards when using anonymous sources. The findings of this study are significant for media professionals and lawmakers who seek to ensure a balance between freedom of speech and source safety.