Helyreigazítás

Helyreigazítás, often translated as "correction" or "retraction," is a legal and journalistic term in Hungary referring to a formal statement issued to rectify false or misleading information published in a media outlet. This process is governed by Hungarian media law and aims to protect individuals and entities from reputational damage caused by inaccurate reporting.

When a person or organization believes they have been unfairly represented or misinformed by a publication, they can request a helyreigazítás from the media outlet. If the media outlet agrees with the claim or if a court orders it, a correction must be published. The scope and placement of the helyreigazítás are often stipulated by law, ensuring that the correction is visible to the same audience that saw the original false information.

The purpose of a helyreigazítás is to provide a clear and unambiguous correction of the erroneous statement. It does not necessarily imply an apology from the media outlet, but rather a commitment to accuracy. This mechanism serves as a crucial check on media power, allowing for the remediation of factual errors and maintaining public trust in the information disseminated. The legal framework surrounding helyreigazítás is designed to balance freedom of the press with the right to privacy and protection against defamation.