Guide for Publication- Powered By
Purpose
The SHM Publication Policy provides clear principles and processes for researching, writing, editing, and publishing content that reflects Somalia’s humanitarian realities with accuracy, integrity, and impact. It ensures our publications remain independent, credible, and human centered.
Scope
This policy applies to all SHM content, including:
Quarterly magazine issues
Weekly online articles and features
In-depth research reports
Humanitarian briefs and special editions
Social media and digital storytelling content
Editorial Principles
Accuracy – Content must be based on verified facts from credible sources, cross-checked
by the editorial team.
Independence – No political, commercial, or donor influence should compromise content.
Human-Centered Approach – Prioritize affected communities’ voices, dignity, and rights
Evidence-Driven Reporting – Use reliable data, field research, and expert analysis.
Cultural Sensitivity – Respect Somali traditions, beliefs, and contexts in language and
imagery.
Conflict Sensitivity – Avoid language or visuals that may escalate tensions or stigmatize
groups.
Content Approval Process
Pitching – Writers submit article proposals to the Editor-in-Chief for approval.
Research & Data Collection – All data must be sourced from recognized institutions,
field interviews, or direct observations.
Drafting – Writers must follow SHM format and style guidelines.
Editorial Review – Editor-in-Chief and Research & Development Manager review for
accuracy, clarity, and tone.
Final Approval – Research & Development Manager (in consultation with Executive
Director) signs off before publication.
Ethical Guidelines
Obtain informed consent before interviews or photographs.
Protect the identity of vulnerable individuals when required.
Avoid plagiarism—credit all sources.
Declare and manage conflicts of interest.
Publication Format
Structure for Articles & Features
Title – Concise, informative, and engaging
Subtitle (optional) – Ads context or depth.
Byline – Author’s name and position.
Summary/Intro – Brief overview (50–80 words)
Body – Structured into short sections with subheadings.
Data Highlights – Key statistics or quotes in callout boxes.
Conclusion/Call to Action – Summarize insights and next steps.
References – Cite all data sources (APA or in-text format).
Minimum 3 pages Maximum 6 pages
Structure for Research Reports
Title Page – Report title, date, author(s).
Executive Summary – 1–2 pages of key findings.
Table of Contents
Introduction & Background
Methodology – Research approach and limitations.
Findings & Analysis – Data presentation with charts/tables.
Recommendations
References – APA format.
Appendices – Additional data, maps, or documents.
Minimum 7 pages Maximum 9 pages
Structure for Research Reports
Title Page – Report title, date, author(s).
Executive Summary – 1–2 pages of key findings.
Table of Contents
Introduction & Background
Methodology – Research approach and limitations.
Findings & Analysis – Data presentation with charts/tables.
Recommendations
References – APA format.
Appendices – Additional data, maps, or documents.
Minimum 7 pages Maximum 9 pages
Style Guide
Language – English (British spelling) and Somali (where appropriate).
Tone – Professional, empathetic, and clear.
Images – High-resolution, ethically sourced, with captions.
Headings – Bold for section titles, italics for sub-sections.
Font (Print) – Main text: Times New Roman, size 12; Titles: Arial Black.
Publication Schedule
Quarterly Magazine – Released in January, April, July, October.
Weekly Articles – Every Monday.
Special Reports – As needed based on humanitarian events.
Review & Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it reflects evolving best practices in humanitarian
journalism and publishing.
Contact & Responsibility
The Research & Development Manager is responsible for implementing this policy, with support
from the Editor-in-Chief, and Digital Innovation Officer.
